John Wayne Pioneer Trail Public Comments

We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." I am a co-founder of the non-profit Backcountry Discovery Routes based in Seattle. We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? We have created a motorcycle route across Washington north to south called the WABDR. It crosses through Ellensburg so this eastern section would come close to connecting to our route. If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. If you have any questions for me please ask. I am also a co-founder of Trails.com (which I no longer own) and the author of the book 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Seattle which was revised this summer and will be out in the 3rd edition next spring. I am a huge advocate of trails being open to ALL users - hikers, bikers, skiers, motorcycles, snowmobiles, etc. Thanks for considering this idea. I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. I think you will find these people to be very responsible and would use the trail wisely. "We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized- use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." Thank you for doing your part to keep trails and roads open for all adventure seekers! Please reconsider your thoughts on closing the iron horse Trail. Public land is shrinking everywhere due to budget constraints I believe. This is unacceptable for future generations to come to be able to enjoy the land. Thank you Sergeant USMC We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent

1

land owners. Trails like this bring in visitors from outside our state and are a treasured resource to those of us fortunate enough to live within easy access. As someone who has spent time riding on this trail, I can tell you It's an adventure tourist's dream. We should embrace this trail as a National icon - one of the longest rail-trails in the US. What else can we do as trail users to help retain public ownership and access to this historic route? Thank you for doing your part to keep trails and roads open for all adventure seekers! I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. "We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized- use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." Thank you for doing your part to keep trails and roads open for all adventure seekers! I have personally ridden this trail and can’t wait to do it again. The remoteness is stark and wonderful. It’s a treasure. I'm writing you to voice my concern about the proposed closure of the eastern section of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. From reading articles I understand there have been concerns with lack of maintenance and weeds on this section of trail due to limited use by bicycles, hikers and horses. It's a shame to lose any public trail to closure since there is zero chance they'll ever reopen again and these types of trails and nature deserve to stay in the public hands. My suggestion is to open this section of trail up to street legal adventure and enduro motorcycles in the summer and snowmobiles in the winter so that it sees more regular use. Regular motorcycle use would drastically cut down on the out of control weeds and regular use would help deter illegal dumping and trespassing that the land owners are complaining about. In the last 10 years, this segment of the motorcycle community has grown exponentially and riders like myself travel the country to go find our next adventure. Unimproved Legal Trails like this one are a biker's dream and there's no reason motorcycles can't coexist with bicycle riders, horse back riders, and hikers. As a motorcycle rider we know the importance of staying on the "trails" or risk losing them. We also tend to self police others if we see them risking all our rights. If you haven't already, look up the Back Country Discovery Routes (BDR's) that the company Butler Maps have created. In just in the last 6 years they have developed back country routes in WA, CO, UT, ID, AZ, & NM. Motorcyclists like myself have traveled across the country to go ride these trails. On popular motorcycle forums like Advrider.com, you can find numerous threads about riders each year that go tackle the next BDR as they are created. Two good reasons for the high popularity of these trails are we know they are legal and we know someone has done the hard work of laying out a trail and connecting the dots. In this particular case, the WABDR would be accessible from Eastern WA by the John Wayne Pioneer Trail which I guarantee you would attract motorcycles all over to have another path to connect into the WABDR. Word would quickly spread in the motorcycle community about this new "legal" trail to ride and it would bring in tourism dollars for the communities in this area. If you worked with the motorcycle community or groups in that area, I'm sure a volunteer group could also be created to help maintain this trail, clean up trash, and just keep an eye out for illegal dumping and trespassers Washington is blessed with some beautiful country and riders from all over would definitely make good use of another legal trail to ride on. We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use

2

bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state as well as provide access to us locals. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside the state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. I have personally come down from Canada to ride the WABDR and return to WA state once a year for riding. Thank you for your consideration, Please don't give the John Wayne trail to private land owners. I love traveling the dirt roads of our state. I get a reason to spend money throughout various towns and enjoy what our state has to offer. Please keep it open for licensed vehicles. We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized- use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. Thank you for doing your part to keep trails and roads open for all adventure seekers! I'd like to vote to open the iron horse trail up to two wheeled use and maintain public lands. Agenda 21 plans to increasingly close forests, reduce public access and push US citizens into urban housing. "We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized- use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro

3

and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors like myself from outside your state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. I'm writing you to voice my concern about the proposed closure of the eastern section of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. From reading articles I understand there have been concerns with lack of maintenance and weeds on this section of trail due to limited use by bicycles, hikers and horses. It's a shame to lose any public trail to closure since there is zero chance they'll ever reopen again and these types of trails and nature deserve to stay in the public hands. My suggestion is to open this section of trail up to street legal adventure and enduro motorcycles in the summer and snowmobiles in the winter so that it sees more regular use. Regular motorcycle use would drastically cut down on the out of control weeds and regular use would help deter illegal dumping and trespassing that the land owners are complaining about. In the last 10 years, this segment of the motorcycle community has grown exponentially and riders like myself travel the country to go find our next adventure. Unimproved Legal Trails like this one are a biker's dream and there's no reason motorcycles can't coexist with bicycle riders, horse back riders, and hikers. As a motorcycle rider we know the importance of staying on the "trails" or risk losing them. We also tend to self police others if we see them risking all our rights.

If you haven't already, look up the Back Country Discovery Routes (BDR's) that the company Butler Maps have created. In just in the last 6 years they have developed back country routes in WA, CO, UT, ID, AZ, & NM. Motorcyclists like myself have traveled across the country to go ride these trails. On popular motorcycle forums like Advrider.com, you can find numerous threads about riders each year that go tackle the next BDR as they are created. Two good reasons for the high popularity of these trails are we know they are legal and we know someone has done the hard work of laying out a trail and connecting the dots. In this particular case, the WABDR would be accessible from Eastern WA by the John Wayne Pioneer Trail which I guarantee you would attract motorcycles all over to have another path to connect into the WABDR. Word would quickly spread in the motorcycle community about this new "legal" trail to ride and it would bring in tourism dollars for the communities in this area.

If you worked with the motorcycle community or groups in that area, I'm sure a volunteer group could also be created to help maintain this trail, clean up trash, and just keep an eye out for illegal dumping and trespassers

Washington is blessed with some beautiful country and riders from all over would definitely make good use of another legal trail to ride on. Please keep the Eastern John Wayne Trail open to the public. Please also consider opening it to off road vehicles. One of the reasons I want to visit WA is to visit public lands. I spend my leisure money traveling and that is on my list of places to go. I would be very disappointed if I were to cut WA from my plans. A lot of tourists come looking for freedom and open space such as this. Thank you in advance for doing your part to keep these wild places wild. We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds

4

and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." On November 10, 2015, we attended a meeting in Rosalia regarding the closing of the John Wayne Trail. About 100 people attended along with Rep Schoessler, Rep Schmick to hear and voice pros and cons regarding closing 130 miles of the John Wayne Trail (which happens to be the longest rail trail border to border in the nation. Cutting off 130 miles would remove Washington State from that prestigious national standing . The purpose of the meeting was to find common ground to work with disgruntled adjacent farmers and trail users. My question is why was not one representative from the State Park in attendance?? Also, since The Milwaukee Rail Bridge in Rosalia, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 - why isn't there a plaque indicating this honor on the bridge as is the plaque on the Steptoe Battlefield State Park? Eastern Washington has so few opportunities for such a connective trail to Western Washington and Idaho. To lose this major trail will be a disaster for the future of Eastern Washington recreationists I am a Trail Planning Coordinator, for the John Wayne Pioneer Wagons and Riders. Our club’s only purpose is to promote and assist in the development of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail within the Washington State Iron Horse State Park. We were involved in establishing the Park, have held countless work parties, and have sponsored an Annual Cross State Ride for over 30years. The attempted closure of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail from the Columbia River to Malden came as quite a surprise. The management of the Park from DNR to Washington State Parks east of Lind only happened in 2006 and then the Great Recession. We are coming out of the recession, the Trail is easier to use with the addition of Group Camp Sites at Lind, Ralston, and Revere, and our Annual Ride numbers are higher than ever. Washington State Parks has a new planner in place and should be judged on what they do in the future. Reasons given for closing the Trail Weed control: Weed control is very important! It would be interesting to have an uninvolved expert drive the Trail and compare the weed situation on the Trail and adjacent privately owned land. Fence Repair: Many of the areas of down fences appear to be on Trail sections that the adjacent landowner have grazing leases on the Trail. It would be simpler, of course, to rebuild the fences, cancel the leases and only have typical WA State Park Gates that only restrict vehicles and not walkers, horses or cattle. We are not proposing this, because we enjoy the “Old West Adventure” of sharing the Trail. Few of the existing gates, mostly green “Powder River Classic” gates, swing properly. We propose to rehang the gates, installing new posts as needed with lever latches so they can be opened from horse back. Trail Supervision: We agree that a Ranger needs to be reassigned to the Trail. As we come out of the economic downturn new parks in the area have been opened, but no new Rangers rehired. It is our observation that Rangers spend most of their time driving between far flung Parks. This is not a good use of funds. Trail Use: Our Annual Ride is getting larger every year and we have even reduced our advertising budget each year. We can only handle so many. We have folks coming from out of state – Kentucky, Michigan, Colorado, California, Oregon, B.C. etc. Folks form Montana especially say that they have nothing like this and are very upset with their states leadership in losing the segment in their state. Choice of sections to close: Beverly to Smurna, still managed by DNR makes little sense, because it is mostly adjacent to Fish and Wildlife land. Smurna to Warden still has live track. Warden to Lind, also still managed by DNR is only used by the Sun Ranch for cattle grazing. Lind to Ralston has just two gates that are used to control cattle on DNR owned leased land. Ralston to Marengo to Revere to Ewan is one of the top four favorite sections of the whole JW Pioneer Trail. This section has everything Cow Creek, the transportation route for Native Americans, (introduction of the Ice Age Flood in the) beautiful Scab Lands, and adjacent to public lands (no permits required) the many thousand acre Escure Ranch and the 2600 acre Fish and Wildlife Land as well as Rock Creek Falls. Ewan to Malden is the most used section of the entire Trail east of the Columbia. Rangers report that they receive more requests for permits than any other section. This is an incredible beautiful trail high above Rock Lake and even though it is only about 3.5 miles on both ends of the lake separated by private property at Johnsons Beach. It includes two great trestles that could be easily decked with planking and two 900’ solid 5 tunnels. Even with the private property issue this will always be the most popular section of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail east of the Columbia if not the whole Trail.! Our Commitment: We are committed to working with Washington State Parks, local communities and adjacent land owners to make the John Wayne Pioneer Trail the outstanding trail in the country.

I am forwarding this email to Randy Kline. Randy will be heading up a planning process for State Parks looking at the future of the old Milwaukee Road Corridor east of the Columbia River. He will be contacting you about the planning process in the near future.

Thanks for reaching out to me Friday to discuss the planning process for the cross-state trail also known as the John Wayne Trail. As we discussed, the section between just west of Othello and Royal City Junction, previously controlled by WSDOT was transferred to the Port of Royal Slope back in July/August as a result of legislation from this past session. The transfer included the deed to the right-of-way with certain caveats due to

6

the potential future use of the cross state ROW as an active rail corridor. Specific legislation from last session can be found here http://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2015-16/Pdf/Bills/Session%20Laws/House/1586- S.SL.pdf

It impacts RCW 47.76.290 which is here http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=47.76.290 I've copied Cathy Potter, the Executive Director of the Port of Royal Slope on this email for any needed follow up. Given the contingent interest of DOT's relating to RCW 79A.05.125 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=79A.05.125, I believe the best contact related to your planning effort is myself. Please continue to keep me informed on the development of your efforts and I will enquire if any other region or local DOT staff will also want to be informed or participate. Please keep the John Wayne trail open .i have never ridden the trail but am looking forward to riding it in my retirement. We as us citizens don't need less land that we can't use and don't produce income and the only way to do that is to let people use it. To whom it may concern:

I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to the adjacent land owners. The state should instead consider opening the trail to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles. If bikes were allowed on this trail it would keep the weeds and grass down, thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions that limit use and increase maintenance requirements. Trails like this (and routes like the Washington Back Country Discovery Route), when opened up to motorized-use, bring visitors in from outside our state, boosting tourism revenue and outdoor enjoyment

"We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized- use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA."

Thank you for doing your part to keep trails and roads open for all adventure seekers! Our Family has used the John Wayne Trail for over 30 years when it was purchased by the State in 1982. Our children and grandchildren have joined us on horseback, bicycling, wagon rides, and work parties on the trail. They have many fond memories of these enjoyable family times. We respectfully request you oppose all future efforts by the 9th district legislators to close the trail from the Columbia River to the Idaho border and transfer ownership to adjacent property owners. The John Wayne Trail is a valuable cross-state non-motorized trail and would be a great loss to our State because of its unique location and geological terrain. It was also designated a National Millennium Trail by the nation’s First lady in 2000. If lost it can never be replaced and the citizens of Washington and visitors would forever lose the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful variety of landscapes the trail offers. I'm writing in support of keeping the section of John Wayne trail east of the Columbia River open. I realize the adjoining land owners have legitimate concerns but hopefully these can be resolved without turning the trail over to the private land owners as was recently proposed by 9th District representatives Joe Schmick and Mary Dye. Thank you, Dear Mr. Kline: I live in Ellensburg, and I have practiced law here since 1989. I believe the John Wayne Trail is a resource that the State of Washington must preserve in its entirety - as the years go by this will become

7

more and more of a premier hiking, biking, and horse back riding attraction. If you don’t believe me, sometime when the weather improves walk or bicycle the trail over Snoqualmie Pass to Ellensburg. I have not yet done the entire trail at one time, but I intend to do that, maybe this year. Please do not let the efforts by some republican law makers ruin what is a park that is irreplaceable. This is a time that your actions could be remembered for their greatness. Please consider making the trail more accessible. •Set up a day use fee station at the trail heads. More people would be inclined to purchase a permit if the process were made available to them on a whim, where they happen to be standing at the moment. •Sell a one year duration pass card allowing bearers the use of ALL Washington State Trails. Proceeds could be used for trail maintenance, i.e. weed control making many adjacent land owners love you. I see this as similar to the Noxious Weed Permit I purchase for our kayaks each year allowing me to be on the many lakes and rivers. Money in Washington State’s pocket! Those who use the amenities should be paying for them. Think of it as a toll bridge. Please think positively. Thank You We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized- use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. Thank you, Please help keep the Eastern Section of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail open to the public access. We need your help FOOTHILLS RAILS-TO-TRAILS A CALL TO ACTION! KEEP THE EASTERN SECTION OF THE JOHN WAYNE PIONEER TRAIL OPEN TO PUBLIC ACCESS The Friends of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail and Tekoa Trail and Trestle Association need our help in saving this wonderful cross state trail from disappearing from our landscape. "In September 2015, while members of the TTTA were working with state legislators to support renovation of the Tekoa trestle, they were shocked to learn instead that their State Representative Joe Schmick had placed a proviso in the State budget that permanently closed 135 miles of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail through eastern WA. Rep. Schmick's proviso came as a complete surprise to trail users. Schmick was trying to appease adjacent land owners who complained of poor Trail management, by giving away 6,000+ acres of public land free of cost, without public notice or input. The eastern section of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail would be closed today if not for a typo that nullified the law, keeping it from going into effect." (Friends of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail website) Due to the typo, the immediate threat has gone away but the Friends of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail and the TTTA need your help working with State Parks and property owners along the trail to solve and find workable solutions to the many problems that property owners have along this isolated stretch of trail. State Parks also requires that you have a "Trail Pass" to use this section of the trail. The pass is difficult to get (try finding it on the State Parks website) but most alarming, your personal information is then given to the 200 property owners along the trail. No other trail in the State Parks system requires this kind of pass. It will take an act of the Legislature to remove this special pass requirement. More information can be found on the Friends of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail website or on facebook for the Tekoa Trail and Trestle Association. Make sure you contact your Legislators and State Parks. State Parks has set up a commission to study this issue and make recommendations to the Legislature. Let our collective voices

8

be heard! SAVE THE JOHN WAYNE PIONEER TRAIL The John Wayne Pioneer Trail The John Wayne Pioneer Trail is the longest rail-trail conversion in the United States, extending for an estimated 253 miles across the state of Washington. It is one of only two cross state trails in America. It is an epic trail. It begins in thiols woodlands, traverses the dramatic, harsh terrain of the Scablands, and ends in peaceful pastoral settings. It is used by hikers, horse riders, bikers. Boy Scouts, scientists, and Washingtonians of all sorts. Threat to the Trail Last year, save for a typo, the state legislature closed 135 miles of the trail and gave away 3 property it had once purchased for $3,000,000 to adjacent landowners at no cost. This was done without any public notice. Many small WA towns, such as ours (Tekoa, pop. 843), need the trail to help our fragile economies. We need the jobs that the trail brings. That is why 14 cities so far have passed resolutions asking the legislature to fund and repair the trail, and to keep it open; Tekoa, Spokane, Cheney, Rosalia, Lind, Palouse, Colfax, Pullman, Cle Elum, Royal City, Rockford, Latah, Ellensburg and Roslyn. DROP the PERMITS! The JWPT is the only public land in the entire state of WA requiring a special pennit just to walk on. The permit is difficult to obtain, and once you have it, your identity is given to approximately 200 ranchers and land owners adjacent to the trail. Hikers on the trail have frequently been forced to produce these papers when spotted by them. We believe the trail has been singled out for this treatment in order to deter people from using it. l/W?y chose a policy where one particular trail or park is singled out to be treated in a manner that deters public use, invades privacy, and hurts small town economies. Only an act of the legislature can remove the permit requirements You can Help! • Contact your legislator • Show support for the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. Ask your legislator to drop the permits required to use the Trail • Visit our v^ebsite www.JohnWaynePioneerTrail.org Join our Facebook Group - Tekoa Trail and Trestle Association I am writing regarding State Parks plans for improvements and maintenance of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail east of the Columbia River. I am in support of all of the key points that have come out of the joint meetings between the Tekoa Trail and Trestle Association and the adjacent landowners, i.e.

1. improve spraying for noxious weeds 2. reinstate ranger service 3. repair the Cow Creek trestle 4. remove permit requirements for recreationalists 5. remove fees for farmers moving equipment on the trail 6. restore the Tekoa trestle for pedestrian, horse, and bike access 7. start a citizen litter patrol “adopt the trail program” 8. repair the Columbia River trestle at Beverly 9. improve rock slide removal and gravel grading 10. install and maintain proper fences

9

11. install additional trail heads, water stations and bathrooms

In addition, I believe that the Columbia River trestle at Beverly should receive a degree of priority. This is a great trestle, an asset to the Park system, with the potential to join western and eastern WA in more than an actual physical sense. Currently the JWPT, and the State, is bisected by the Columbia River with NO SAFE MEANS of crossing for a nonmotorized traveler for a span of 190 miles, between Wenatchee and the TriCities, (unless the Vernita Bridge is considered, although it is not designed for nonmotorized access). Because there is an unacceptable failure of the State to provide nonmotorized access across this major river for such a long span, I believe that restoration of the Beverly trestle may qualify for grants focusing on alternative transportation, especially since the crossing over Wanapum Dam was eliminated after 9/11. This gap bisects State owned property and a recreational trail with no viable detour. A pedestrian crossing at Beverly could be enjoyed by users of the Iron Horse Trail and Wanapum State Park, potentially boosting tourist dollars to Beverly. I had heard that due to the high winds common in this area, special consideration in the design would make the renovation prohibitively expensive. I believe that a fenced railing at shoulder height and signs warning of potentially high winds should be sufficient. There are no provisions for safeguarding the motorized traffic over the I-90 Vantage bridge with the same wind. As someone who has been blown over by the wind on my bike, I did not think to hold the Dept. of Transportation liable for my judgement and the vagrancies of weather. Thank you for your consideration for the JWPT. We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." To Whom it may concern, I would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA." I’ve been riding motorcycles my whole life and it seems like more riding land is taken away from us every year. Thank you for doing your part to keep trails and roads open for all adventure seekers! I am writing AGAIN in support of maintaining the John Wayne trail. As a member of the JW Wagons & Riders, Back Country Horsemen (Peninsula Chapter), and Rio Verde Roverettes in Arizona--you could say I am a HORSEMAN. I am also 73 years old and have been a member of these organizations for many years--a "working" member, I might add... Members of all three organizations VOLUNTEER their time, money, and energy to enable all to enjoy the trails. Indeed, our ride has frequently been accompanied by hikers and cyclists & we pass many of both during our ride as well. The John Wayne trail is unique in that it is a "cross state" trail which is the envy of many states. (Indeed, we have worked for years to get the AZ trail to a cross-state status.) Here you are debating the existence of an EXISTING CROSS STATE trail???? It is also inappropriate and inconvenient for users to need a PERMIT for access! What other parks require this??? If you want to collect some sort of fee, say so but also do it for other parks' use as well. I live both in AZ and WA state but grew up outside Port Angeles. I CARE! Thank you for allowing me to contribute.

10

Mr. Randy Kline, I would like to take a moment to give you a my feedback regarding the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. First a little background. I personally grew up in Eastern Washington. Colfax, Pullman, Yakima, Moses Lake. As an adult I moved to the Seattle area. As an avid outdoorsman, I have always been grateful of the great state we live in. I was born in this beautiful state and I doubt I will leave. My use of the parks and public spaces has been a key to the exploration I do as a way of life. Now I work for a cycling tour operator called Bicycle Adventures. At Bicycle Adventures we offer great cycling tours all over North America. We are finding a market that we have largely been ignoring; cyclist that need safe, protected, comfortable bike ways. So we have started offering tours on rails to trails. And they are doing quite well. We have sold out tours in North Idaho utilizing the Centennial Trail, Hiawatha and Coeur d’Alene bike trails. In South Dakota we are on the Mickleson. In Missouri, the Katy. In Western Washington, the John Wayne Here in Washington, our home state, we have an opportunity to bring tourism to all the small communities along the John Wayne Pioneer Trail from the Puget Sound to the Idaho border. Aside from the positive economic impact that it has on the local communities, we have a lot to share in Washington. The John Wayne Pioneer Trail, if continuous and properly managed, would be the leading bike/hike/horse corridor in the country. We are paying attention, going to the advocacy meetings and will be contributing throughout the process of rebuilding the eastern half of the JWPT. And when Washington State has the longest, most scenic, accessible, best recreation corridor in the nation, we will be celebrating. Thank you for taking the time to hear how important the John Wayne Pioneer Trail is to my company and me personally. Travel well, Matt Paul Director of Operations Bicycle Adventures 18047 NE 68th #B140 Redmond, WA 98052 [email protected] 425.250.5546 800.443.6060 Please do all you can to preserve the John Wayne trail, especially the section from Beverly to the Idaho border. This trail is an important asset to the state and holds great potential as a tourist attraction as well as serving residents of the state and the region. I am strongly in favor of protecting the John Wayne Trail and making it more accessible to the public. As a geologist and author of two books on the Ice Age floods I can not emphasize enough the importance of the trail to providing educational and recreational opportunities in the Channeled Scabland of eastern Washington. Congress recognized the importance and significance of the Ice Age floods in 2009 when it approved legislation to establish the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail (www.nps.gov/iafl), which includes the area of the John Wayne Trail. In the future, with some trail improvements, the John Wayne Trail could draw adventurous travelers from all over, increasing tourism and stimulating local economies. The John Wayne Trail should be improved and maintained to become an integral part of the larger Ice Age Floods Trail. Bruce Bjornstad Geologist-Author: On the Trail of the Ice Age Floods www.BruceBjornstad.com I have used parts of the trail many times and found it a rewarding experience. In addition to myself I have led groups of people from the Fun, Fit and Over Fifty Club on bicycle and hikes along the trail. I believe that this trail is an asset to our state and to the people and communities who use it. Several years ago I was invited to a meeting to comment on the trail. In addition to me and Dr. Rose there were several farmers there who owned land adjacent to the trail. They recited all sorts of wild tales about the risk of fires, need for ambulance service for possibly sick users; vandalism and theft to the farms adjacent to the trail. All this did not have the slightest bit of credibility. It was obvious that this was just a veiled effort to grab 11

the trail land for their personal use and ownership. I think that this is so wrong. Let that trail belong to the citizens, not a few greedy farmers. I hope that the trail can be preserved and improved over the years. Publicizing it will tend to attract more users as it should to provide an incentive for better physical fitness. So I urge you to support the Trail for all of us. Thank you. Dear Mr. Kline, over decades of riding the pass and on tours into MT & ID, the trail surface is the main reality doing the miles. The wagons want crushed rock that's a massive slow-down to a touring cyclist and prevents skinny tires from using it as a bypass along Lake Keechelus. My suggestion is to handle bikes, wagons & horses a hardpack or paved surface at the crown 30"-36" wide for the many in-between miles to get riders using the trail more often. Then for families, paving the full width a mile or two from parking for kids bikes and for the lake by pass, gravel trails are too much work so they don't have fun or get very far, this to satisfy a need as rural areas are growing. I own land adjacent to the John Wayne Trail in the Rock Lake area. I urge the closure of the trail from the Columbia River to Malden for the following reasons: 1. Nuisance. There is no Parks supervision of trail users in our area. People do not bother to obtain permits. They use the trail to access my property because it is scenic and they want to hunt, fish in Pine Creek or the north end of Rock Lake or camp or lay in the shade despite the presence of No Hunting, No Trespassing signs. An untended campfire could totally destroy my property. 2. Lack of Maintenance. The tunnels in the area have rock falls that have not been cleared. The continuing rock falls are a danger to hikers/bikers who might be passing through the tunnels. There have been no repairs on trestles in the area and they are in a deteriorated state. State Parks has done no fencing. The adjacent landowners bear the total burden of the cost of fencing. The same burden is paid by the adjacent landowners for control of noxious weeds. Parks has been a very poor neighbor. 3. Vandalism. Trespassers and vandals have broken off steel gate posts, smashed metal gates, and cut locks to gain entry to the trail in our area. There is evidence they have had campfires. Garbage and bottles and cans are left behind. 4. Lack of Use. To keep the Columbia River to Malden portion of the John Wayne Trail open for the use of a few horseback riders is nuts. The horseback riders already are not permitted to use the trail from the south end of Rock Lake to Hole-in-Ground Road because of private land and the sad state of the trestles.

5. The State of Washington Has Higher Priorities. The State does not have the funds to keep up the JWT. The State Budget is so tight that the Legislature can’t even currently allocate adequately for Education, Firefighting, State Patrol, etc. Thank you for your consideration. The John Wayne Trail goes through our ranches at both Malden and Pine City, Washington. The Parks Department has not maintained the trail since inception of their state controlled ownership. This includes fences, bridges, tunnels, weed control, signs designating closure to very dangerous segments of the trail and/or no trespassing signs. Pine City to Ewan is a dangerous section of the trail with landslides and an old tunnel that is ready to collapse. Several areas, within this section, are privately owned with no trespassing by land owners. The tunnel alone would cost millions to fix with the only access, along Trail, is a single span steel bridge that is not wide enough to handle large trucks or equipment. The bridge would have to be widened and reinforced with steel to reach tunnel. The section from Pine City to Ewan needs to be closed and left out of any trail plans. I was at the Rosalia meeting and heard about all the people from Western Washington, Eastern Washington, and North Idaho that will be using the Trail. Amazing, there was not one person mentioning the cost of annual maintenance or capital cost (bridges, trail restitution, fences, weed control and Parks Department patrolling the right of way, bathrooms and RV spots). The State of Washington is just supposed to waive its magic wand and the money appears. Oh, don’t forget the large people numbers filling our small communities and the money the locals will make. Well guess what? Between Malden and South to Beverly there is not a good watering hole 12 present. I oppose the Trail from Malden to Beverly. The cost of repair and maintenance would far surpass the use of this section of the trail. Why not use this money to repair our terrible roads, outdated bridges, Spokane’s North South Highway or Spokane’s streets which are absolutely hazardous. Maybe Western Washington could spend some money in Eastern Washington. These are items we can all enjoy and not the very few that will use the JOHN WAYNE PIONEER TRAIL. Are there any studies planned, in the very near future, to determine the actual cost of these WANTS? On the farm, we have to make monetary decisions based on NEEDS and not WANTS. Remember you’re spending State money and this money needs to benefit all the people.

My family and I are avid cyclists. We have bicycled all over Washington State, in several other states and 6 European countries. With all this background I can tell you that the John Wayne Trail is an incredible treasure that if developed properly could make Washington State a world class destination for cyclists. Many people, especially those with children, are afraid to cycle on roads with automobiles. It's dangerous and unpleasant. Traffic free rail trails are incredibly important to families. I urge you to support development of the John Wayne Trail for the good of the people of Washington State. Dear Randy, I am an adjacent landowner near Rock Lake in Whitman County. Here are some of my thoughts about the trail. 1. Top priority should be stewardship of the land: spray the weeds, take care of the land. 2. Maintain fences and provide fences and gates where the trail abuts land in private ownership so the public can’t easily trespass. 3. Provide fences and gates at points along the trail for private land owners who have trespass problems such as along Rock Lake where the public wants to access private property without permission. 4. Close more isolated areas of the trail in the summer and during high fire season. A fire set by someone on the trail would be devastating and take weeks to control because of the difficulty to access the area. We have had fires in that section that were set by the Rail Road and it weeks to get the put out. 5. From the Columbia River to Rosalia, have the trail by permit only and issue permits only when the fire danger is low. 6. Charge a fee for permits. The trail is an asset and the remote and isolated parts of the trail are supposed to be a treasure ,so don’t treat it like an undeveloped park but like a treasure and charge for the use on it. 7. We need more policing on the trail. Land owners have a terrible time with vandalism, trespassing, theft and we even had marijuana grow on our property that was accessed from the trail. People like to camp and cut wood and make camp fires on my property next to the trail. If I don’t catch them, no one will. Extreme bike riders ride across trestles that are marked closed and danger along our section of the trail. 8. During dry seasons, if permits are issued, inform the land owners of when people are coming through so we can be vigilant for fires. 9. Have the state come up with insurance or a compensation policy to protect adjacent land owners for loss of pasture, timber, crops, equipment, buildings or livestock from a fire caused by someone using the trail that spreads to adjacent land. 10. Protect adjacent land owners from liability by people who trespass on private property and injure themselves. 11. Where the trail goes through small towns such as Rosalia, Malden, Pine City, and so on.... have a prescribed distance where there is no charge for the trail so local people can enjoy using the trail in their community. 12. The John Wayne Trail should not be treated as a regular park. It has its own needs and they differ in different areas of the state. You need to work more with local communities and land owners as well as the very vocal recreationist. They use the trail only a few times a year at the most, we land owners have to deal with it every day. 13

It is on my bucket list to ride the entire John Wayne Trail before my horse or I depart this world. (I am 70 and my horse is 25 so that makes us both about 12 to 14 in dogs years!!!) For several years we have been riding 2- 3 days at a time. (Can not get the time off to ride the entire length.) Currently in the area of Lind. Clearly I HIGHLY support the trail and what almost happened last fall by closing 130 miles could be classified as a crime. A crime of politics and a crime of a trail not being taken care of for, what 30 years. This story reminds me of what is probably John Wayne’s best movie, The Searchers. A story about tenacity, and I am holding out hope that State Parks finds that “tenacity” to do what is right by the trail and leave a legacy to be proud of, PLEASE find the tenacity for all future generations to come: walkers, bikers, and riders I'm unable to attend the meetings in Cheney and Ellensburg, but wanted to log my comments in favor of maintaining the trail open to public non-motorized access. I biked from Ellensburg to North Bend last year and have been scheming ways to plan a trip from Ellensburg east. The longest rail-trail in the nation could be a major recreational destination if we connect and develop the trail appropriately. This trail has been an asset to horsemen for many years. I’ve ridden in endurance rides hosted on the trail & look forward to riding point-to-point with the John Wayne Pioneer Wagons & Riders Association. There are so few places where horsemen can travel long-distances & enjoy this beautiful area of Washington State. As a Native Plant Steward with the WA Native Plant Society- I would think that there might be an opportunity to enlist the help of volunteers to help implement the control of noxious weeds. Please keep this long & historic trail open to horsemen! Sincerely, Connie Hoge, Chairman of the Centennial Trail Coalition of Snohomish County, Director of the Cascade Horse Club Chapter of BCH, Founder of the Washington Trail Riders Distance Derby, Administrator of the Equestrian Trail Riders Alliance of Washington. http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/ Please remember who were here first, horses.... there are so few places to ride horses safely anymore while bikers are allowed most roads and trails...we do need our places to ride as well as the bikers.. It's been recently brought to my attention that a large section of the JWT is at risk of being closed, permanently. I now live north of Seattle but have ridden my horse in recent years on the JWT between Ellensburg and the Columbia River. I grew up in Lind Wa. riding my horse between Hatton and Lind on the fire roads adjacent the rail bed and that was 45 years ago! This corridor has a very long history for use by equestrians and it would be a very bad blow to all the users to have it gone, once it's gone there's no going back. We would like to go on record as supporting the entire 250-some-mile abandoned railway known as the John Wayne Trail. This unique and irreplaceable resource is, and has the potential to be a major recreational draw in Eastern Washington. As you may know, it is the largest rail-to-trail conversion in the nation, one of only two cross-state trails in the United States. We do NOT feel the trail should be closed and turned over to adjacent landowners. The trail west of the Columbia has become popular while East-Side use is light. Much of the fault is that jurisdiction to the trail east of the Columbia River was turned over to the Department of Natural Resources, which set restrictive use guidelines and a permit system that squelched recreation use. The trail has the potential for boosting the economies of rural towns along the way, as shown by studies on rail trails in other states. It also encourages healthy non-motorized family recreation and exploration of our wonderful Eastern Washington communities. Newer bike technology and increased interest in the natural history of our area make maintaining and improving this trail important. Landowners concerns about weed control, fencing, trash dumping, illegal hunting as well as adding ranger service and volunteer cleanup programs should be addressed. Landowners should be treated as trail partners, and not be charged to move equipment adjacent to the trail. The 200 landowners along the trail have to find some agreement with the 7 million Washington residents who have a stake in rail-trail’s potential We feel the key to compromise is seeking more money to develop this trail in Eastern Washington. More traffic by legitimate users increases self-policing. In recent years, millions of dollars of federal funding have become

14

available for alternative transportation projects, Now it’s up to us to ask for it. They also include replacing trestles, removing recreation permit requirements, improving trail surface and developing trailheads. We hope the trail will endure for many generations to come, and with proper support and policy changes, be supported by all Washingtonians. I noticed in the Daily Journal of Commerce that you are seeking public input on the future of the John Wayne Trail. Not long ago my family and I were aghast when reading some local landowners conspired with some crooked politicians to take this trail from the public. Hence our first comment is PROTECT this trail, do not let it fall into the hands of greedy, selfish people who would deprive the public from using it. In 2015, two Washington state representatives from the 9th district attempted to include language in an amendment to the state's 2015 capital budget that would close a 130-mile-long (210 km) section of the trail east of the Columbia River. It was later revealed that a typo, referring to the closed section as “from the Columbia River to the Columbia River”, nullified the amendment temporarily.[2][3] Our second comment is to IMPROVE the trail. Ensure it is useable both to locals as well as to people who have come a long distance. I have always wanted to ride my bicycle across state and am gladdened to hear this could be an option. Camping locations, water, grocery stores, bike shops, hotels all should be developed or improved. Access points to nearby towns would be very helpful as well. Finally, PUBLICIZE this trail. Put it on the map as a destination for people to go and to use. Better maps for its use and where we can pick up supplies are needed. Partnering with local bicycle clubs to get one or mores rides (like the STP) to use this awesome resource would also be fantastic. Iron Horse/John Wayne Trail Comments on the overall route. Short Term Plan -Open three major bottlenecks requiring detours: Snoqualmie Pass Tunnel, Columbia River crossing, and Cow Creek crossing. Keep in mind they are rustic, historic features that will never be up to modern building codes or ADA compliance. Just make as simple of improvements as possible to facilitate bicycle passage in order to avoid long detours. -Use prison crews or volunteers once or twice a year to hand pull and spray weeds along the length of the trail to mitigate the invasive weed issues. Allow them to drive in to do this work. Be sure and get rid of the tire- destroying Goat Head weeds reported near Smyrna WA. -Allow camping on the old named railroad sidings, presumably the ROW is a little wider here. -Set up practical detour around missing Othello-Warren section. Have two options, one following dirt roads through Seep Lakes Wildlife Area, and another following paved roads. -Create a map showing the trail, existing water sources, bathrooms, amenities, hospitals etc. Recruit businesses along the trail to pay for adds to cover your costs. You can also sell the map. The map(s) should work both for short trips and multi-day, across state riders. Consider partnering with The Mountaineers. -Experiment with using a small roller-compactor once a year to improve the more loose section of trail surface, i.e. loose or larger gravel. -To raise more revenue, start publicizing the section of trail between Hayak and Cedar Falls based on the model of the Hiawatha Trail on the Idaho/Montana border. I rode that twice last summer and there are literally hundreds of people on the trail any given day. We rented bikes at Lookout Pass ski resort and paid around $50 dollars each for the shuttle, bikes, etc. It must be a profitable venture for them. Yes that trail is perhaps a little more spectacular (no views of an interstate), but it also really reminded me of the mountainous Hayak -Cedar Falls section of the Iron Horse Trail. It also has great trestles, good amenities, views, and most important a gradual downhill ride which appeals to the novice rider, families, etc. This seems doable to people who are out of shape and gets them on the trail. It also has the same intriguing feature of starting with a mile + long tunnel which people find adventurous, riding in the dark through the center of the mountain. Given the proximity to Seattle, this section of trail is an underused gem. Ideally it could be better promoted to raise revenues for parks. Consider partnering with Snoqualmie Pass Ski Park and/or Cedar River Watershed Education Center for bike rentals and shuttle. I think this could be a super popular day trip for people from Seattle. Long Term Plan 15

-Create a balanced set of interpretive signs along the trail, focus not only on the history of the train itself, but also on the natural features and historical significance of the areas the trail passes through. -Repair larger closed trestles, where possible, to avoid detours. Conversely, create formal detour trails around old trestles that cannot be made passable. It is not financially feasible to repair all of the old trestles, they can be left in a ruined state and a smaller trail can detour around them. -Create basic campgrounds every 40 miles or so with an outhouse, tent pads, benches, a water well, and possibly a covered pavilion. -Team with someone to write a guidebook for the trail. Create brochures for the trail. -Groom and improve trail sections near cities and towns, leave the remote sections rustic, but do some improvements with the trail surfacing and trail gaps where needed. -Repair trail surface on Columbia Plateau Trail between Martin Trailhead and John Wayne Trail juncture to facilitate Seattle-Spokane ride. Conclusion As these public meetings indicate the recent there is public interest in John Wayne Trail/Iron Horse Trail state park. There are lots of fit, intrepid cyclists in this state think the ideal of a cross state endurance bike tour, like the John Wayne Trail, could be really popular in the near future. A lot of people would want to ride from Seattle to Spokane, or Tekoa, even continuing onto the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes to Wallace, Idaho. There are people currently using the John Wayne Trail despite the major and even unsafe detours, and the lack of basic amenities such as water. In particular the I-90 bridge at Vantage is a problem, the historic Beverly bridge should be opened as an early priority. A few fairly simple improvements making it more friendly for bikers could greatly increase the usability of this trail system. I am writing these comments as a citizen and as someone who enjoys long distance bikepacking trips. I have ridden on various sections of the John Wayne/Iron Horse Trail and really enjoyed it. It would be a real loss to the state park system if this park was closed. Unfortunately I am not able to attend the John Wayne Pioneer Trail planning meeting scheduled for March 9, 2016 in Ellensburg. My comments/questions follow: 1) I have a significant concern as it relates to motorized vehicle access to the trail. We own property that borders both sides of the trail south of South Cle Elum for a length of approximately 1/3 of a mile. The barriers that may have once been in place do not currently keep vehicles off of the trail. it has become clear through observing tracks in the mud and snow that vehicles have been accessing our property via the trail. We have had property stolen and gates ripped down that are adjacent to the trail. I would like to know what the current policy is as it relates to the use of barriers and/or gates to keep vehicles off of the trail. We have an ongoing problem with trespassers gaining access to our property via the trail, but when a vehicle is involved, it then provides a mechanism to transport stolen property. 2) Please provide direction for locating the other comments relating to the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. I support the John Wayne Trail. Please keep it protected. My comment is to ask if you have any plans to refurbish and open the Beverly Bridge—it seems a shame to have it sitting there and not be part of the trail! I presume the piers and trusses are structurally sound and it would just need a new roadbed/railings/etc. Thank you! Mr. Randy Kline: I am retired and an equestrian user of the John Wayne Trail and reside in Ellensburg, WA. I am opposed to any type of permit regulation regarding the use of the John Wayne Trail. Since the trail is a part of the State Parks System which requires the use of the Discover Pass, I feel that is enough regulation required. The Yakima Firing Range requires a sign in system at the west and east portion of the John Wayne Trail that crosses their federal land, which is rarely used, because there is never any pens or forms to complete. I have yet to encounter any authority on the Range to check your sign in permits. If the kiosks were maintained properly, I would have no problem with completing the forms required. However to have a farmer or land owner as proposed, with the authority to check if you have a permit is utterly ridiculous and totally unenforceable and would lead to confrontation and animosity. I feel the Parks System needs to concentrate on improving portions of the trail and less on regulation. Thank you for your time in regards to this letter. Having ridden the John Wayne Trail in out-and-back sections from Cedar Falls to the Columbia and from Escure Ranch to Plummer, I am convinced that the John Wayne Trail in Eastern Washington is an invaluable

16

asset for recreation. I highly encourage its further development, especially the repair of the Tekoa Trestle, to decrease the number of detours and improve the experience for everyone using the trail. This trail is not only an important scenic destination for cyclists, equestrians and hikers, it is a potential economic stimulus for the local communities that it touches. Please do whatever you can to enhance the trail and protect it in perpetuity, and note that this letter of support is accompanied by my first financial contribution to the effort. After attending the Cheney public meeting on March 8, I have a few additional comments. I think the permit process should either be eliminated or modified as soon as possible in order to increase trail usage. The permit system as it stands now greatly discourages use because it makes spontaneous travel on the corridor nearly impossible. When one arrives at a trailhead, one is greeted by an unfriendly sign which states that access to this state park is uniquely by permit only. Only a phone number is given for more information. After one spends an hour or two driving to the trailhead, one is not likely to just go home to apply for a permit before using the trail. There at least needs to be a way to get the information and permit online without waiting days or weeks, but there is nothing on the state park website that even states that a permit is needed and how to get it. But even with a way to streamline the process, I fail to see its utility. Those who go to the trouble of getting a permit are not likely to be the same ones causing problems for landowners. The rules for trail use should be available online so they can be accessed most anywhere, and so parks staff don’t have to spend their resources mailing out information and making sure printed copies are always updated. Gates should remain unlocked so that combinations do not have to be publicized and people are not encouraged to damage them or climb over them with possible injury to themselves. A permit that is good for a year offers virtually no information about who is on the trail on a given day or where they are on the trail and is therefore essentially useless to neighboring landowners. An individual permit issued a week or more in advance for a specific day would only further discourage use of trail since most people will wait to see how their schedules develop and what the weather will be like before deciding to use the trail on a specific day. If a permit system needs to be maintained, I would suggest it only be utilized for large groups and events for specific dates, so that it is more consistent with other park policies. At the public meeting, I was particularly interested in the landowner who said that he was routinely bothered by trail users coming to his house for water. That issue really needs to be addressed soon. At the very least, signs should be posted in this area that services and water are not available for X number of miles and that trail users must remain on the trail and carry their own supplies. Stay On Trail, Respect Private Property signs should also be posted occasionally along the trail. Signs and website materials should stress that trail users must be self-sufficient and they will be traveling through an environment that can be harsh, isolated and dry. It is also critical that the maps be updated, particularly for the area just west of Ewan where private property access is now apparently denied for individuals. If a detour is needed there, it needs to be shown on the map. The biggest thing that discourages me from using the trail more is the poor quality of the surface. It is either too rough with too much heavy rock, too sandy, or too wet without drainage. Finely crushed rock will be a huge improvement for the surface. I also agree with the land classification proposal that it should be a mix of Recreation, Resource/Recreation and Heritage and that John Wayne’s name should be deleted from the park and trail name since he really had nothing to do with it. In general I applaud the Parks Commission and the Advisory Committee for identifying the relevant issues and proposed solutions. I am confident that as education and use increases, problems will decrease as they have in so many other recreation areas. It is a big project, but one well worth undertaking. Thanks. Thanks for the opportunity to participate in the improvement planning for the JWPT/Iron Horse State Park. This linear trail within a linear park is a valuable asset to Washingtonians. As you will notice, and perhaps I had the chance to chat with you on the subject, I provided a comment for the Other Issues in which I put forth that the Advisory Committee should include (if possible to add a member) or consult with someone who will represent a child welfare perspective. As I was leaving the meeting, I had the opportunity to speak with Advisor Keith Bailey, and during our chat about trail maintenance, he proposed that taxpayer money would be better spent on education than spending on the Park and Trail. About that time, our conversation broke up, so I didn’t get to explore this area with him. I hoped to include him on this email, but could not find his email address. I hope you will share it with him, if possible.

17

In regards to Outdoor Recreation and Classroom Education, the best interest of the children is that there NOT be either/or thinking. I encourage you to reach out to experts who can provide you with the best and most recent research in this area, in the meantime, I will offer these links to help you understand the importance of including the interests of children into the Planning Process. http://www.parksandrecreation.org/2014/November/Healthy-Play-Outdoors-Means-Healthy-Kids/

http://www.childrenandnature.org/2014/12/27/accessible-outdoors-kids-with-social-emotional-and-physical- disabilities-go-outside/

http://warnercnr.colostate.edu/docs/hdnr/hdfw/2012/Working%20with%20the%20Public/Stuart%20Cottrell.pdf

https://prezi.com/c9xbiximkfef/outdoor-recreation-vs-technology-how-it-is-affecting-child/

http://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/2015/dec/17/we-need-fewer-exams-and-more-wilderness-in- education?CMP=share_btn_fb thank you for your attention to this matter I live on the trail off Dry Creek RD and I believe eliminating or even reducing the trail would be a gross mis- judgement and decision of those proponents supporting the legislation to do-away with the trail. The trail is a great resource to people of central WA, and all the communities along the trail. I witness daily people, of many age groups, using the trail either walking, jogging, biking and etc. My personal concern is the weed control along the trail or the lack thereof. I personally spray along the portion which is adjacent to my property. IF THIS IS AN ONGOING ISSUE WITH THE STATE FOR FUNDING FOR UPKEEP (SPRAYING) ETC. , THEN I SUGGEST THAT THE STATE DEED THE PORTION OF THE TRAIL UP TO THE DITCH. With this the State could maintain only the trail surface and the property owners would have the responsibility of caring for the portion that has the greater environmental impact. What a wonderful "Family" trail, I am in hopes that this one wont be taken away from the public!! How can we help? Thanks for your time I am a member of Back Country Horsemen in Spokane. As a member of BCH I take an interest in all actions on trails, I will admit I am not as informed as I should be on most things but the JW trail does pass in my area and I think it is a unique situation and I know it draws a great deal of attention to the people around my area, many people here are very proud of it and enjoy it when the riders come thru each year. I will state I am in support of the trail, would like to see it better utilized and would like to see the adjoining land owner more satisfied with the status of the trail. I am aware there are many issues the land owners are unhappy with and other issues that need to be worked on. I plan on devoting some of my attention both as a BCH member and citizen to this situation and your guidance would be helpful. I should make note that I live in Waverly about 11 miles from Tekoa and about 16 miles from Rosilia where they have a parade every year and most of the riders participate in the parade. To city people that sounds like a long distance but to those of us that live in the country it just around the corner. I often go to Tekoa for coffee. I would like have more information as to where funding is coming from for the trail, can it be funded from Recreational Trails Program grants, can we work something out where more volunteers are used to help save money. Especially in spraying for weeds, volunteers can be used if they are working under the supervision of a licensed person. Give me ideas and suggestions and lets see where they go. This trail has been open to horsemen for a long time. I’ve been on horseback rides on the trail & plan to ride it a couple of time this year as well. Please keep this fantastic piece of Washington & Washington history open & available for equestrian use. I would be happy to volunteer in some capacity if there are maintenance work parties that I could join. There are way too many trails being lost for various reasons, which in my opinion, could be avoided if we work together. Thank you for listening to this plea!

18

I'm a bicyclist, a JW trail user and a senior citizen. Any bike trail is a good thing for the health and well being of any citizen who uses it. The John Wayne trail is a wonderful addition to out-of- doors enjoyment of nature. From what I have read in the papers there are some trailside landowners who want the trail right-of-way for their private (access to parts of their property for example) uses, To make their case they have added farfetched worries that the trail users will rob, and damage the trailside properties. This is generally not the manner of bicyclists. My vote is to extend the trail and ask trailside owners to put up "keep off" sign on their property if they are truly worried about it. I am thankful to have input in the planning of this stretch of the John Wayne Trail. Basically I want it to happen! My biggest wish is that the entire trail could be paved. My husband and I have to travel away from Eastern Washington to bicycle paved trails in the Pacific NW and Idaho. We live in Ellensburg and dream of paved trails here in Eastern Washington! It would bring many visitors to our little city and be a way for our community and it's families to enjoy another form of recreation right here at home. Thank you for taking comments on the John Wayne trail planning. I am a retired geology professor from Eastern Washington University, a member of the Ice Age Floods Institute (IAFI) Board of Directors, technical advisor to the Cheney-Spokane Chapter and the Palouse Falls Chapter of the IAFI. I have led numerous educational trips to the Rock Lake section of the Trail for students and hundreds of lay people. I conduct bicycle field trips along the north-end of the Rock Lake section and am still amazed at its interpretive value. I have conducted recent trips with a train historian who has expanded the information available to the participants. The Trail in eastern Washington follows the Missoula Flood path and is rich in many spectacular landforms. I have visited most of the John Wayne Trail with state parks personnel and found that there are many interesting and spectacular areas along the trail that would interest many adventurous visitors. Much of the trail is of special interest to the National Park Service in their directive to coordinate interpretive activities along the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail. National recognition by being included in the NPS brochures would provide many further benefits to the State. The Trail must be kept intact and further developed and improved to permit more extensive explorations by the general public. The cross-state trail when completed will draw many to explore and enrich their lives through the adventure and discovery process. Tourism, education, and economic benefits to local communities will be greatly enhanced when the trail is completed. As you know, the trail crosses the Columbia Plateau Trail (old SP&S) which will permit connections for further exploration and economic benefit to additional towns and cities like Spokane, Cheney, Washtucna, etc. I helped lead a hiking field trip on March 5, 2016 from Lyons Ferry to Palouse Falls and had an opportunity to talk to individual participants who have agricultural property along the John Wayne trail. They were favorable to the trail with the condition that it is managed for weed control. Driving back to Anacortes I noted that the DOT has a spray truck doing an annual weed control along many of its right of ways. State Parks would receive more support from local land owners if some plan to control weeks were included. Washington State has been given a golden opportunity to develop a trail system that would be the envy of the country. We must maintain ownership of the right of way and seek funding to provide unique opportunities for the present and for many future generations. I know this is form, but it states my desires completely. I have two badly damaged ankles, I can’t peddle a bike too far (but I do) I can only walk about 2 miles a day without becoming unable to walk the next day, but I can ride a motorcycle all day. I have rode the WADBR end to end twice, I have rode the Oregon BDR once, and plan on doing three of them (CA/OR/WA back to back to back) this late summer/fall. Keeping trails open and public is important, because so many public lands aren’t (foresting) and opening trails to street legal motorcycles opens them further to use by those who aren’t fit enough to walk them. Accessibility is important. We contribute to the economy when we do this, I usually budget $300 a day when on a ride. We would like to see the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail kept open and NOT transferred back to adjacent land owners. Would the state consider opening this trail up to street-legal two-wheeled vehicles (a.k.a. enduro and adventure motorcycles) and snowmobiles? If bikes rode this trail regularly it would keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this (and routes like the WABDR) when opened up to motorized- 19 use bring in visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. Please keep the eastern section of the John Wayne Trail open and NOT transfer back to adjacent land owners. This is too great a treasure to lose. If it were promoted more and restricted less, our state would have a premiere cross-state gem.

I also would encourage you to open this trail up to street-legal adventure and enduro motorcycles. Mixed use has been successful in areas of the state and in other states. Traffic will always be light, but should be sufficient to keep the weeds and grass down thus minimizing trail maintenance. It would be a shame to see this public treasure lost just because of trail use restrictions. Trails like this and routes like the popular Washington Backcountry Discovery Route( WABDR) when opened up to motorized-use bring in many visitors from outside our state. It's an adventure tourist's dream to ride through land like the rolling hills of eastern WA. I support developing the John Wayne Trail to transverse Washington State Eastern Washington has so few opportunities for such a connective trail to Western Washington and Idaho. To lose this major trail will be a disaster for the future of Eastern Washington recreationists. On November 10, 2015, we attended a meeting in Rosalia regarding the closing of the John Wayne Trail. About 100 people attended along with Rep Schoessler, Rep Schmick to hear and voice pros and cons regarding closing 130 miles of the John Wayne Trail (which happens to be the longest rail trail border to border in the nation. Cutting off 130 miles would remove Washington State from that prestigious national standing . The purpose of the meeting was to find common ground to work with disgruntled adjacent farmers and trail users. My question is why was not one representative from the State Park in attendance?? Also, since The Milwaukee Rail Bridge in Rosalia, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 - why isn't there a plaque indicating this honor on the bridge as is the plaque on the Steptoe Battlefield State Park? I'd like to vote to open the iron horse trail up to two wheeled use and maintain public lands. Agenda 21 plans to increasingly close forests, reduce public access and push US citizens into urban housing. I am writing in support of maintaining the entire John Wayne Trail in the State Park System open to the public. Walla Walla Boy Scout Troop 305 have ridden the trail numerous times as part of the “Cascade to the Bitterroots” bike ride, most recently in 2015. With the scouts I personally rode the entire trail in 2003, 2006 and 2008 and provided support in 2009. The nine-day adventure provided numerous leadership opportunities, physical challenges, and a lifelong memory of accomplishment. And we were all exposed to the diverse geography of our state and friendly people along the route. Concerning the permitting issue, I support a required permit for multi-day trips. I see this a benefit for both parties in exchanging information where such use is and trail condition. For example, desired overnight facilities, adjacent landowner activities impacting trail use such as moving equipment, cattle management, etc. Self-issuing day permit use should be considered so that trail usage can be prioritized. The Forest Service use self- issued permits for most wilderness areas. A state wide “Friends of the John Wayne Trail” organization would be quite helpful in organizing volunteers to provide marshalling of users similar to the marshals on the Hiawatha Trail and providing labor and perhaps extra funds for maintenance and improvement projects. There are boy scout councils along the length of the trail that could be enlisted in this effort by facilitating local troop adopting a section of trail.

20

21

The John Wayne Pioneer Trail The John Wayne Pioneer Trail is the longest rail-trail conversion in the United States, extending for an estimated 253 miles across the state of Washington . It is one of only two cross state trails in America . It is an epic trail. It begins in thick woodlands, traverses the dramatic, harsh terrain of the Scablands, and ends in peaceful pastoral settings . It is used by hikers, horse riders, bikers, Boy Scouts, scientists, and Washingtonians of all sorts. Threat to the Trail Last year, save for a typo, the state legislature dosed 135 miles of the trail and gave away a property it had once purchased for $3,000,000 to adjacent landowners at no cost. This was done without any public notice.

Many small WA towns, such as ours (Tekoa, pop. 843), need the trail to help our fragile economies . We need the jobs that the trail brings. That is why 1.4 cities so far have passed resolutions asking the legislature to fund and repair the trail, and to keep it open; Tekoa, Spokane, Cheney, Rosalia, Lind, Palouse, Colfax, Pullman, Cle Elum, Royal City, Rockford, Latah, Ellensburg and Roslyn.

DROP the PERMITS! The JWPT is the only public land in the entire state of WA requiring a special permit just to walk on. The permit is difficult to obtain, and once you have it, your identity is given to approximately 200 ranchers and land owners adjacent to the trail. Hikers on the trail have frequently been forced to produce these papers when spotted by them. We believe the trail has been singled out for this treatment in order to deter people from using it.

Why chose a policy where one particular trail or park is singled out to be treated in a manner that deters public use, invades privacy, and hurts small town economies.

Only an act of the legislature can remove the permit requirements. You can Help! Contact your legislator • Show support for the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. • Ask your legislator to drop the permits required to use the Trail

22

• Visit our website www .JohnWaynePioneerTrail.org • Join our Facebook Group - Tekoa Trail and Trestle Association

Don't know if i'm doing this correctly or not, but heard a name change for the park is being considered. I would like to put my vote toward keeping the john wayne trail name. thank you...... Hi, based on your handout, here's my thoughts Noxious weeds and veg. I like #5 and 6 - don't have State Parks staff spend a half day going to the middle of no-where to spray! Trespass on property: Tell people how much water they need. have potable water for them seems like a hassle I like #1 and 2 educational efforts - rarely do people think of themselves as trespassers, so the tone of the signs needs to be more educational than NO TRESPASSING. (please do not walk on the field because when you walk on the field...etc.) Fencing and gates: I like #2, 1 - and please don't use chain link fence. it is ugly and high maintenance, even though it is the 'authorized and recommended' fence of choice - 5 string wire is ok for wildlife, I think? maybe that would be good - best is if you have sage or something to keep people on the trail. Trailhead facilities: 8-10 miles apart for eastern Washington seems like too close - I think people could bike 15-25 miles and be ok - even though it's hot, and let people know where the next facility would be (x miles ...) good to consult with local pty. owners - they might even help 'watch' might be easier to refill potable water containers than drill a well! If you have bathrooms, don't lock them! Camping facilities: again, 10 miles is too close - on a bicycle 10 miles is about an hour ride - maybe slower in 105 heat or deep snow! if people are going to camp seems like you could space them farther apart. Yes, provide group and individual. Many people we are trying to attract into the outdoors like to go with large family/friend groups, and we should accommodate that - and have shade. Recreational permit - stop. we have the discover pass. leave everyone else alone. just let people walk on it. ride on it. no permit needed in eastern wa as near as I can tell. takes more to manage the permit than whatever benefit it would have. Park naming: Consider changing the trail name to "Iron Horse State Park" or something in recognition of the native lands through which the iron horse ran...certainly John Wayne (who was never in the military) is not our best symbol of patriotism or inclusiveness. pardon my rant. Long-term boundary - yes. do what you can so we actually have an across state trail. Consider long term events across the state - perhaps Jon Snyder in Olympia with the Outdoor Rec. policy could be helpful here. Randy - you're doing a great job on this and I appreciate the opportunity to give input. We believe that it is in the best interest of our state to keep the full length of the John Wayne Trail open while addressing the interests of adjacent land owners. A cross state trail can draw visitors to Washington, which is beneficial to the local economies. The recreational opportunities are beneficial to the health and well-being of people who live near-by and are able to use the trail. Children and families can use the trail to observe nature and get a close-up view of working farms. The John Wayne Trail offers multiple benefits to the citizens of our state. It already is in place and once lost would be difficult if not impossible to replicate. We need to alleviate the concerns of nearby land owners without giving up an important piece of our public heritage. I am writing to support the effort to keep the John Wayne trail system open to the public. It is a valuable and historic public asset and I do not support giving away land to private landowners and closing part or all of the trail. Please work to keep this trail open. Randy, Understand there is a petition to change the name of the John Wayne trail. Please apply my vote for the State trail to be named "John Wayne Pioneer State Park Trail" Hi Randy,

23

My preference for a name is as above: John Wayne Pioneer State Park Trail Thanks, I hope that it ALL gets built as soon as possible! :) What a TREASURE it will be for eco-friendly travel and recreation, as well as an *incredible* opportunity for cyclists and trail runners and others to show support to the small towns along the way who badly need our support!! Thanks so much, have seen emails going around again about the proposal to change the name of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail to the Iron Horse Trail Once again allow me to point out 3 things: 1. We have an investment and a brand established and it is called the John Wayne Trail 2. There will be additional costs by State Parks to do this, last thing we need is another expense for the park system 3. There are several other closed railways that are fairly well known and they are already called IRON HORSE-one in Calf. and another near Calgary, Alberta Thanks Jerry Lloyd ReinShadow Ranch and Arena for Horses and Dogs Thanks for your consideration of the amounts of time, energy, money that the John Wayne Wagons & Riders have put into this trail over the years…. Randy, I'm foundation with the John Wayne Pioneer Riders, over 32 years, and led the ride for 18 years. I knew the founder. Contrary to what I've read the original name is NOT after a club. The founder, Chic Hollenbeck, a gentleman cowboy, thought John Wayne represented, mom, apple pie, and the American way. He wanted to attract family values, and the pioneering spirit. Indeed, this trail is the actual pioneer of rails to trails from which over 1,000 Rails to trails throughout the United States have sprung, and Wash. state is the pioneering role model for these states. The name John Wayne Pioneer Trail fits. Personally I like it the way it is . John Wayne Trail thanks Dear Randy Kline, I support the continued development of a statewide multi-use non-motorized trail, from the Pacific Ocean to Idaho and that will also connect there to other trails. We are living at a time when people and places are often divided, and in our case, the mountains and the Sound divide us, but this is an opportunity to slow life down, to reconnect, and to see the state at its best, as a whole, whether being utilized for a commute, a day trip, or a multi-day adventure. Washington State is a travel destination, and we struggle to direct travelers to places not on the top 10 lists. I know because I am the founder of Long Beach, Washington’s Summerfest, which is a cultural tourism effort to help attract people to Pacific County. The Long Beach Peninsula is a better place today because of the Lewis & Clark Discovery trail and the little Bay to Ocean Trail at Ocean Park. Investing in the John Wayne Pioneer Trail will help us tell our stories, and it is a valuable resource for locals and for visitors from afar to show them the expanse of the features and the people that we know are worth the effort to explore and get to know. As the Puget Sound region grows, we have so many people who are new to the region. We can tap their travel dollars to benefit communities statewide. This is important, and the ROI pays back for generations. Oregon will steal those dollars away from us unless we invest and promote our favorite places and resources like the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. In 1987, I bicycled from the top of the Burke-Gilman Trail to the W&OD Rail-Trail in Washington DC for Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. I traveled 4,400 miles connecting existing rail-trails, meeting with local people and the media, and I talked to trail developers and community trail advocates from coast to coast. There are no communities that regret investing in healthy, off street corridors for runners, bicyclists, cross country skiing and other uses. Some corridors allow snowmobiles in the winter too, but generally restricting motorized use is best (except ADA users).

24

Developing and connecting the John Wayne Pioneer Trail to other trails makes perfect sense for economic, environmental and practical aesthetic reasons. Next week I’ll be on the Olympic Peninsula and using the Discovery Trail, and this summer I return to Ohio for a family wedding, and I can’t wait to bicycle the 80 miles of the Little Miami Rail Trail which begins in my hometown of Springfield, Ohio, also famous for being on the National Trail. History lives through the stories of moving West and settling in communities to live the American Dream. I can tell you that traveling by foot and bicycle has made this nation and communities strong, and we need to understand, to share, and to live that reality even more today. Love the name as is .. Never cared for Iron Horse ... !!! John Wayne Pioneer Trail is a wonder description ... This will be my 9th year on my beloved horse from Easton to Teko Randy, I prefer it be called the Iron Horse Trail but please don’t tell anyone with John Wayne Pioneer Wagons and Riders I said that! J Thank you for the information. On naming the Trail, I of course would like to keep it the JWPT in the Iron Horse State Park, but if that is not possible then the John Wayne Pioneer Trail State Park would be my choice. Introducing a new name would be very confusing and put us back many years. I think that there are folks yet that would like to see the Trail go away, but can't bring themselves to that point, because of the name. Even though I am not totally armored with "John Wayne" he does represent to our society a positive link to the past. For his time he was a forward thinker in that he insisted in his movies that Native Americans were played by native Americans. The John Wayne Trail (old Milwaukee Rail Line, era 1909) is a remarkable asset, both recreationally and economically as a potential utility corridor for 7 million Washington citizens. It should not be returned to a few adjoining property owners. While funds are not immediately available for major improvement, the trail must be held in public reserve for a time when funds are available. Develop a long-term plan with intermediate goals. Interim measures with lower funding output include:

• Use volunteers, Washington Conservation Corps (WCC), and correctional work crews for maintenance, weed control, and fence/gate projects as well as adopt-a-trail programs.

• Partner with local county and city public works and/or parks departments for trail maintenance.

• Prevent unauthorized vehicles by using ecology blocks, ditches, or berms.

• Coordinate with the military, National Guard, and Corps of Engineers for bridge repair/inspections/replacement as a realistic training opportunity for their organizations.

• Follow the model established by Rails-to-Trails project in Pierce County (as well as others) to develop and use a system of volunteer patrols along the corridor. Another model to follow is COTA (Central Oregon Trails Association), which has a well-established trail building and maintenance program. They coordinate with parks as well as land management organizations (i.e., U.S. Forest Service and BLM).

• Restrict motorized vehicles (ATVs, dirt bikes, etc.) to reduce damage. Segregate (with adequate signage) available motorized vehicle areas from other users. Limit speed.

• Use the existing Discovery Pass. Yet another pass system isn’t necessary.

• Attract newer recreation activities (i.e., fat tire bikes) which will add more users (more revenue) without additional roadbed improvements.

25

• Set up a STS (Seattle to Spokane) run/ride which will bring participants, their support crews, tourists.

We must be forward-thinking and preserve this resource for all. Many communities with like trail systems have found that this actually raises property values, brings money into the community, and gets used. Thank you for accepting my comments. Please add me to the distribution list about progress, meetings, and hearings. I'm writing to provide my support for efforts to expand the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. The parks department should eliminate the onerous and obstructive permit system, which makes it more difficult for the public to use our shared public lands. The state should also provide full funding needed to open the entire trail to cyclists and other members of the public. Thanks for your attention, I just read an editorial in the Seattle Times about some Eastern Washington legislators that are trying to privatize portions of the John Wayne Trail. I ride many of the rails to trails bicycle routes throughout the year and greatly enjoy them. I am an avid supporter of rails to trails. The controversaries surrounding the conversions to public access have always been rancorous and expensive. Please block any attempt at returning these trails to private ownership! Why could i do to help keep the trail? Organize a bike rally? Raise funds? I work 60 hours a week and am looking for some fun worthwhile project that means something to do with my13,16,21 year old kids that love the outdoors. I am not in the position to head a big project, but have faith in my kids to leg work anything you think would help with a little focus and leadership. I agree! There's NO reason in the world why we should roll over and let un-elected bureaucrats change the name of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail! This is like a shot from out of the blue. There has never been sentiment for a name change. On the contrary, usage of the phrase, 'John Wayne Pioneer Trail' is widespread, common and accepted throughout the Trails communities and even throughout the country. The cost of a name change alone should be enough to stop any further Parks Staff efforts down this garden path --- the cost may only be a few dollars here and there (or a few thousands of dollars) but isn't money the big issue here? We must stand and fight this nonsense. Thirty five years ago Washington Representative Gary Scott proposed that this Trail be called the John Wayne Trail. The name caught fire. It held people's attention. It stood for an image. It's an American icon, it's apple pie and Chimney Rock. It's Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam. It's Lincoln and Roosevelt. An Iron Horse Trail? What's that? Thirty five years ago this very same group of bureaucrats used every trick in their play book to oppose us. Fortunately strong support in the WA State House and Senate prevailed and approved the legislation needed. From there we moved on to where we are today. There's one place where we can show our support (politely and graciously) --- at the JW Advisory Committee meetings chaired by Randy Kline. Better yet, Tom Short, Gaylord Perkins, Ted Blaszak and Mark Borleske are outstanding members of the Committee --- let them know how you feel about this. --- is there time for a write-up for the newsletter? I'm writing to you to voice my support for the protection of, and further development of, the eastern section of the Iron Horse State Park and the John Wayne Pioneer Trail for hikers, cyclists, walkers, equestrians, cross- country skiers, and other forms of recreation, including limited motorized-vehicle use.* I feel that we are losing too much public land due to budget cuts and financial constraints, and as income disparity in our country increases, there exist fewer and fewer opportunities for affordable recreation for the "rest of us". This 287+ mile trail, if developed, maintained, and managed well for multi-use, will be a unique treasure to residents of Washington state for generations to come. It will also be a draw for out of state tourism, and will be an expression of our values: that we still believe in the commons (taxes put to good use); that we cherish the

26

beauty of the North American landscape; and, that outdoor recreation is fundamental to our health and well- being. The trail provides a relatively easy, safe, and accessible form of recreation for people of all ages and skill levels: the challenge being, how fast and how far one wants to travel in a day! Being a railroad, the grade is never steep, and there are no precipitous drop-offs that will challenge the less experienced back- country horseman/woman; cyclist; snowmobile sledder; sled-dog musher; cross-country skier (note, though, that a flats workout provides a terrific, grueling training workout since there are no big hills for a quick "recovery" descent!), and so on and so forth.

I engage in climbing/mountaineering/ski mountaineering; cycling (mountain bike/road bike); running; and am recently re-engaged in equestrian recreation. I have climbed Washington's 100 highest peaks (39th person to have completed the Bulger list). I climb, hike, ski, trail run, and ride horses every month of the year. I use public lands daily, whether it be a city park, a land-trust or land conservation area, county park, a state park and/or federal lands (and friends and family use the dog parks with their canine friends!). People NEED the commons. We crave, and need, space where we can travel long distances without the dangers that arise when mixing humans and horses into traffic. Washingtonians use public spaces daily, if not several times a day. We need our trails today, and we need to develop them and protect them for future generations. We are are made of muscle and bone. Our health and well-being requires exercise, clean air, beauty, space, and solitude. Public lands are an oasis for our physical and mental health and well-being. We need to support and develop trails, manage them wisely and fairly, and give back to the hard-working, American people. I support putting our tax dollars to the good use of supporting the commons, and giving the gift of "space" and recreation to future generations.

*About motorized vehicle use: I support snowmobiles on sections of trail for winter recreation (in places where snow accumulates deeply and equestrians will be less likely to use the trail in these areas during winter months). If there is a safe way to mix motorized ATVs (from 2 wheeler to 4-wheeler) with pedestrians, equestrians, cyclists, and the like, then I think it fair to be all-inclusive when establishing who will use this trail, and when (what season). However, motorized vehicles can attain high speeds and put people at risk for injury. Even at low speeds, motorized vehicles can spook horses. Perhaps speed limits and "safety" zone signs can be posted in key areas, such as coming into blind corners, for example. Snowmobiles and cross country skiers and sled dog mushers must also be aware of one another, and respect speed limits and "safety awareness" zones. Regulation of speed limits would be difficult and costly, but if there are some set rules and posted signs regarding safety zones and speed limits, perhaps that will encourage people to recreate with safety and respect and protect the opportunity for multi-use of the commons. I support development of: 16-1886 Iron Horse-Renslow Trestle Decking and Railing 16-1320 Iron Horse-Tekoa Trestle Decking and Railing 16-1930 Iron Horse- Malden to Rosalia Trail Development I am a great fan of the Iron Horse Trail and use it frequently. I was appalled to hear that recently, without any public announcement, two WA state legislatures tried to remove a significant section of this trail from the public domain and give it to private entities. This trail is a state and national treasure and must be kept in the public domain for the use of all residents and I fully support the State of WA maintaining the necessary funding to keep this trail open to the public. Hello Randy, I am writing in support of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail in eastern Washington (and Western Washington too). I am so thankful that a typo saved our invaluable trail! I wish I could join the meeting tonight in Preston to help plan the future maintenance of the trail, but I work in Seattle and do not get off until 5:30 and I have to take 2 buses home to West Seattle, and there is no way I could get to Preston by 6:00pm (or even 7:00!). It is good that you are having a second round of public meetings though, thank you. We have biked parts of the trail. It is great that it helps bring tourists to the smaller towns in Eastern Washington. 27

In general, I wish that the State Parks were still available for free for all users! I am happy to buy a Discover Pass, but many families and seniors cannot afford it, and therefore are unable to use the parks. This is a real loss for both the families and for society at large. The Parks should not be held hostage by budget problems and politics in Olympia. They are a treasure to be used by all! Thanks again, and I look forward to hearing about the meeting tonight. If you have a report, or minutes of the meeting I would love to read them. Thanks again, for all of your work on this important trail and legacy! Dear Randy, My name is David Allen and I use the John Wayne Trail fairly extensively as a bicyclist. I live in Bellevue, but I have a cabin in Easton within a mile of the trail. I use the section between Snoqualmie Pass and Cle Elum several times per year. Someday, I intend to do the entire trail from North Bend all the way to Tekoa. I believe this trail provides a huge value to the people of Washington and I hope you can get the funding needed to improve the quality of the Eastern section so that the entire ride is on quality trails. Hello Randy, I was unable to attend the public meetings regarding the future of the John Wayne trail. I wrote a letter to Senator Parlette and she forwarded it to Judy Warnick, who then suggested I email you. I am an avid hiker, biker and equestrian. I use the trails in eastern Washington on a regular basis and volunteer with Backcountry Horsemen to maintain and protect trails for equestrian use. I am very concerned about the suggestion that parts of the eastern WA John Wayne trail go under private management. I understand there have been concerns about vandalism and trespassing. I do not think privatizing a treasured public resource is a solution to this problem. It is my perception over years of having travelled in the back country that once motorized vehicles have access there is an increase in vandalism, trespassing and general trail abuse. It seems that there is a direct relationship to the effort it takes to get on a trail and the concern one has for its preservation. I would like more information and documentation about the incidents of vandalism and trespass. Were they close to trailheads? What exactly happened? Is there a process for reporting these incidents and making them part of the public record? Public shaming of offenders is highly effective and social media is a great tool for that. There are many examples across our state that show us some effective ways to maintain public trails next to private properties. Let’s get together and figure out which strategies will work for this lovely and remote trail. And let’s not talk about privatizing. I would appreciate being put on any mailing list regarding future meetings, and if available, I would appreciate a summary of the comments received at each meeting. Thank you. Randy, Thank you for your efforts towards the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. I’ve ridden the trail many times on the west side of Snoqualmie Pass and expect to cycle across the state on the trail in the next couple years. It’ll be a fun adventure and possible only because of you and the trail’s supporters. The corridor is a valuable resource for future uses, not unlike the Pacific Crest Trail and other epic paths across the state. I have joined the Friends of the Trial organization on plan on keeping an eye on this project and supporting it as I can. I am very much in favor of finalizing the 140 mile portion of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail that extends from Beverly Bridge to Malden as a state park and thereby completing the entire JWT as a park and keeping it accessible to all. This trail is quite the legacy for our state and should be honored as public access and a state park. There is so much to be gained by doing this for the state and its citizen's- it must be done. I very much appreciate your support for this project and all that you can do. As a bicyclist and resident of eastern WA I am very interested in the economic and recreational benefits of maintaining and improving the entire length of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. These are the things I would like to see happen:

1. Clearly marked route for the entire length

28

2. Improved surface, similar to the western portion of the trail, along the entire route

3. Primitive camping options, as well as, camping in towns along the route

4. Removal of current prohibitive permitting process to use the trail

5. Signage indicating location of water sources

I look forward to hearing about progress being made on this project. More than 20 years ago my family started using the Foothills trail for biking and walking. I knew at that time they seemed to be fighting everyone to build this trail and everyone seemed to be throwing rocks at them at every step. Slowly they continued to build the trail and slowly every day folks started to use it. Fast forward to today, some sunny afternoons the trail is extremely busy, bikers, walkers, moms with baby strollers, you name it they are using it.

I talked to the mayor of Orting the other day and I ask him what the trail did for his community, there was nothing negative, he praised it for building a community and helping the local business. This is a far cry from this same city's leaders who did everything they could to stop the trail back when we started using it.

My point is, trails are a very valuable asset for the communities but also the everyday families. Sure everyone wants to throw rocks at it but in the end my children their children and their children will benefit greatly if we do the right thing now and save this park for everyone today and in the future. JWPT deserves protection and maintenance. It is an amazing resource not seen in many states. The commission should prioritize this asset. It should not be subdivided and sold to adjacent land owners. Nor should access be limited. Hello, please do whatever you can to keep the John Wayne Pioneer Trail open all the way across the state We can't lose this public land, it would never be replaced. Permits shouldn't be required for public trails. I would like to see the permit process completely eliminated. Having just gone through it, I will be the first to admit it is easy and painless to do. However, if we want people to use the trail, we need to get rid of the process.

Having more people on the trail will help eliminate many of the issues the adjacent landowners complain about. With more people on the trail, there is less likelihood of people dumping illegally or doing other illegal activities.

The easier it is for the public to access the trail, the more likely it is communities will take "ownership" of the trail. Groups will be more likely to go out and clean it up, or develop programs that can improve the trail without the State paying for it. I have used and will use in the future the John Wayne Pioneer trail, both for biking and hiking. Please extend the trail and continue to make it available for this type of use. It's a valuable resource that should be protected and maintained. I am a supporter of regional and long distance trails. Trails are a good use of tax dollars, providing health benefits to our population. Concerns of adjacent property owners are often valid and need to be addressed. I live at the end of the trail by Cedar River Watershed. I walk a few miles on the trail every weekend. It's easy enough for me to walk it, and I can go as far as I want. It's always in good condition and well maintained. I hope that it stays that way. It's a good way to get out in nature, get exercise and still feel safe. Ultimately, the viability of this trail will be decided on how LITTLE usage is acceptable. It's long, the nations longest in fact, remote in sections, some of which will not be particularly scenic to everyone and it borders, crosses or divides farms and ranches.

29

While a magnificent resource for long distance hikers, health minded individuals, extended outdoor recreationalists and conservationist interested folks, how to best make use of limited involvement will be the issue.

Compromise being the crux of any deal, is it possible to have the right of way open on a limited basis? That would be, say, every other year? Hikers in even numbered years, ranchers get odd? I doubt that ranch use seasons could completely destroy portions of the route in a single year? On the other hand, long distance hikers should be planning how to live on the trail a year in advance anyway. The "year off" shouldn't be a complete inconvenience. Farmers Markets aren't open year round and people adapt to those schedules. This mitigates some cost this way.

Another reimbursement maybe considered in the form of a donation. Maybe a fund could be established to "provide" T-shirts for those who have hiked the trail. This would be on the order of the coveted Bloomsday shirts or the Wonderland Trail hiking pins. Now those who have met the criteria for completing the hike would submit a nominal, say $5.00 donation to receive their shirts. This certainly isn't the whole cost of the item, but would help add to the trail maintenance. The rest of the cost comes from a state, county fund - due to limited usage, the stock pile of inventory wouldn't be large, thus the cash outlay wouldn't be significant.

I understand some of this is controversial at best and some is probably unacceptable to others. I only hope it helps. Thank you for the input opportunity. I want to express my support for improving and maintaining the entire length of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. Jurisdiction of the trail corridor must be clarified, and adequate funding must be appropriated in order to achieve this goal. This is a unique asset of the state of Washington that will achieve national recognition, and has the potential for bringing economic growth to many communities along the corridor. The concerns of adjacent land owners, including weed control, adequate access and mitigation of problems such as private property trespassing, and trash dumping must be adequately addressed to insure their support of trail usage. Eventually, it would be desirable to see the restoration and/or replacement of all bridges and trestles that have been removed or that are currently unusable. Campsites, water sources and toilet facilities are also necessary in order to make this a quality tourist experience. The trail is a gem and the time to make it shine is now. I fully support opening up and developing trails for equestrian use. I would like to see this project completed. The John Wayne trail complex across Washington State is a vital piece of public property that offers an unparalleled recreational facility for all state residents! State Parks and the State government should take every necessary step to protect this extraordinary legacy for future generations and not let private landowners seize control or limit access, excluding the interests of the wider population! Growing up in the 60's, I occasionally had to wait for the Milwaukee Road electric powered train to run thru Renton, WA, where the tracks ran right down the middle of a street. The Milwaukee Road property from Renton to and across Snoqualmie Pass was purchased for a linear state park. It has been very well received, and I support the extension of this state park all across the state to the Idaho border (I hope Idaho does the same thing).

When I was in college at the University of Washington, I was around when the first stages of the Burke- Gilman trail was constructed on another railroad roadbed. This was a good thing. Bicycles can easily travel the same grades uphill and downhill that the trains did. Human powered exercise, such as walking, running, and bicycling is good for the environment and good for the human spirit and helps promote a healthy body. Be certain to keep the whole trail public, to lose this potential cross-state gem is a forever loss.

Start making the surface more pedestrian, horse, and bike friendly.

Keep the trail friendly to adjacent land owners (litter, privacy, over the trail access).

30

Hello,

I'm a hiker and cyclist that has had the pleasure to use many of the these Rails-To-Trails in the region. I've used both local trails such as the Burke-Gilman and non-local such as the Banks-Vernonia trails. I've found all of these trails to be a great way to enjoy the scenery of an area with a unique trail that only a former railway could provide. The John Way Pioneer Trail is special in that it is a very long trail that spans not just one part of our great state but from the cascades to the eastern border. While I have not had an opportunity to enjoy this unique trail, I hope to use the trail in the near future and know that I can come back to the same trail without it having been unceremoniously cut in half. I'm sure this concern about preserving our trails is shared by many hikers and cyclists within our state as well as those throughout the country that would visit in order to enjoy it as well. I hope that the trail continues to remain open to the public. The John WayneTrail is an important recreational asset for the Public of the State of Washington, and should be developed and made available to the public to the fullest extent possible.

The portion of the trail that actualy runs next to Rock Lake must be reopened to public use. I write in support of the continued use and maintenance of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. It connects a diverse state and gives many people opportunities for accessible recreation and everyday adventures. When I lived in Ellensburg for 6.5 years, I used the trail regularly for walking, running, and bicycling. Please continue partnerships with public and private landowners and agencies to maintain the trail. As a hiker and Vice-president of the Klickitat Trail Conservancy, I wish to convey support from our entire board of public access to and state funding for the John Wayne State Trail, especially the eastern WA portion. New funding to manage weeds & maintain the trail will benefit both adjacent landowners and trail users. The citizens and communities along the trail in this area have shown their commitment to having this state trail be part of their recreation & tourism activities--an asset worth keeping now & for the future.

The Klickitat Trail in the Columbia River Gorge is also a state parks trail. It was challenged by some landowners along the river when it was turned over to State Parks by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy as a rail- banked trail. But local/regional citizens spoke up & organized efforts to show support for its access & continued use when it was being threatened. This was upheld by state decisions and the Klickitat Trail Conservancy (KTC), that was formed at that time, continues to be an advocate for trail access, maintenance, & funding for public use. KTC has volunteers that work to keep the trail clear of branches, weeds, trash, and rocks as well as leads hikes & community events, and has a cooperative working agreement with State Parks & Forest Service in the Gorge Scenic Area that is vital for its continuation as a state/regional resource.

The Tekoa & Trestle group and citizen allies are functioning in similar manner to enhance & sustain this valuable state trail resource for the public in eastern WA. People of all ages enjoy being able to get outdoors-- walk, bike, or family outings, and appreciate nature & the land surrounding them in their own "backyards" or venture "down the road" to explore. The John Wayne State Trail and an easy public access gives that opportunity with legislation and deserves on-going state support & funding to match the communities stake in keeping the trail open for everyone. I write in support of improving the John Wayne Trail and Iron Horse Walk Trail so that we can have a walking/bicycling trail across our state. Many times I take my bike to ride the Coeur d'Alene trail in northern Idaho. It is an amazing trail and I would like to see our trail become available like it is. I envision a paved trail with restrooms and trash cans every so often so people don't foul the out of doors.

I think of how many people hike the Pacific Crest Trail, the Appalacian Trail and other trails across our nation. So as we improve this trail across our state, we need to think of a marketing campaign to bring visitors to our small town areas. It would give them an economic boost as visiting public spend money for food, lodging, and groceries.

31

Perhaps a campaign to "Walk Washington" could be developed to encourage visitors to enjoy the trail as it grows from dirt to gravel to pavement. We need to also develope a map for the "Walk Washington" campaign that shows all the major trails in Washington. And having a trail across our entire state would be a big draw.

Parks are something we develop for our children and grandchildren. They are a legacy we can leave for fotjers. Parks are gifts we give ourselves and future generations. To whom it may concern,

I received an email about a comment session regarding the future of the John Wayne trail. Unfortunately, I am not able to make the meeting times, however, I would like to provide a couple of comments about the impact the trail has has on my life.

I really enjoy using the trail for hiking recreation. I often take day hikes on different sections of the trail (Snoqualmie Pass and Ellensburg areas) with my dogs. The trail provides a diversity of beautiful landscapes and hiking opportunities. I greatly appreciate the upkeep of the level, sandy trail terrain because I am able to utilize the trail with ease.

I hope the trail's existence and great upkeep continues so that I can continue to enjoy it with my friends and pets. I support the effort to keep the John Wayne Trail open to the public and to allocate funding for improvements in the future. Please look for ways to provide more noxious weed control, litter cleanup, and fencing or signage to help out the adjacent property owners and allow them to see the trail as an asset to their community. With paving and improved bridges and tunnels this trail could become a wonderful tourist destination that will bring more visitors to the small towns along the route. Thank you for the opportunity to comment. Improving the surface of the old Milwaukee Road right of way would be a quiet, peaceful economic boon to the small towns along the route, and would increase appreciation for this beautiful, isolated country. Recreational trail users are some of the very best stewards of the land - they don't litter (and pick up the litter of others) and are willing to spend their recreation dollars where it counts, in the small towns along the way. This trail adds hugely to the rail-trail inventory in Washington, but is just as important in that it fills in the gaps of some wonderful rail trails across Idaho and into Montana. Folks there (as conservative as Eastern Washingtonians, if not more so) should be polled to see what the benefits have been in developing their Great Northern and Milwaukee Road rail-trails. I would bet that their experience will show the benefits to the communities, and ease the fears. It's a great thing - healthwise, tourism-wise, spending local-wise, appreciation of history-wise ... unless your goal is simply to maintain your fear of the outside world, there really is no reason NOT to improve the trail

Thanks for providing a forum for public comments! I am writing to express my support for the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. Rail trails are a fantastic recreation and fitness experience. They also increase economic potential in remote areas and small towns through the tourism they attract. I work for a bicycle tour company and currently some of our most popular tours are rail trails: Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes (ID); Mickelson Trail (SD) and Katy Trail (MO). Washington should have it's own premier long distance rail trail as well! Unfortunately I am not able to attend the John Wayne Pioneer Trail planning meeting scheduled for March 9, 2016 in Ellensburg. My comments/questions follow:

1) I have a significant concern as it relates to motorized vehicle access to the trail. We own property that borders both sides of the trail south of South Cle Ellum for a length of approximately 1/3 of a mile. The barriers that may have once been in place do not currently keep vehicles off of the trail. it has become clear

32 through observing tracks in the mud and snow that vehicles have been accessing our property via the trail. We have had property stolen and gates ripped down that are adjacent to the trail.

I would like to know what the current policy is as it relates to the use of barriers and/or gates to keep vehicles off of the trail.

We have an ongoing problem with trespassers gaining access to our property via the trail, but when a vehicle is involved, it then provides a mechanism to transport stolen property.

2) Please provide direction for locating the other comments relating to the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. Regarding special permits to access the trail:

In the meeting in Cheney, the State Parks department said they would not change the permitting process until the planning process was complete and they decided on a direction for the park. That makes sense more sense than changing it now only to have to change it back later.

Two things come to mind for me here. First, in this day and age, why does it take so long to obtain an individual permit to access the trail? I believe in the meeting it was stated that an individual permit was good for up to 20 people (not really individual, but, still smaller than a group of 100 or more, so okay, we'll go with that.) If I could go to a web page and request the permit and list the names of the people on the permit, I should be able to be approved immediately, why does it take up to three weeks?

The second thing that comes to mind for me, if an access permit is good for one year (same as a Discover Pass), why do land owners need to know who is on the pass? If I obtain the permit today, but I don't ride the trail until July, letting the local landowners know I have a pass is kind of ridiculous. Users should be required to have the pass on them and list the number of people in the group, not names, because plans change, some people might not be able to make the trip while others who weren't on the original plan might be able to. If a landowner, park ranger, or anyone interested wants to see the pass, then it would be a matter of showing it to the interested party to show that I and my group are authorized to use the trail. please keep the trail open! 03/10/2016 I live in Ellensburg, I am a practicing lawyer here, and I am 67 years old. The Johne Wayne Trail is an incredible resource - I use the part of the trail nearby at least 4 times a week, and the remore areas several times a year. I would gladly devote volunteer time to upkeep and other issues. As far as adjoining property owners trespass concerns - that is total BS!. The people and the kind of people who ride and hike this trail could care less about anything any adjoining land owner has - that issue is a total red herring and is created to try to give some legitimacy to the adjoining land owners' claim to the property. Please keep this resource - if it is lost you will never get it back. It is a typical republican party ploy to help local interests and persons who support the candidates who introduced the legislation. I would love to subpoena the emails and phone calls of all those representatives and the local donators to their election. I have ridden the John Wayne trail 4-5 times from Rattlesnake Lake to Hyak. The first time, I was amazed and the treasure we have here in WA and planned to some day ride the entire trail.

I have also hiked in the scablands of eastern WA near the John Wayne trail multiple times. While the drive is long, those hikes have been quite memorable.

As I learned more about the state of the trail east of the Columbia, my plans to ride the entire trail have been put somewhat on hold. While the route is clearly ridden by some, there are what would seem like unnecessary difficulties.

I understand the state is considering improvements to the trail, and I would be very happy to see such

33

improvements happen. Long trails like the John Wayne are a definite draw for folks, the popularity of routes like the Continental Divide Trail, PCT, or even the Colorado Trail or Arizona Trail show that such trails are sought out by many. The beauty of the John Wayne trail certainly rivals any of those other trails.

I guess this is just my way of saying I fully support any efforts the state can do to improve the trail, and I'm looking forward to the day I can ride the entire trail. I'm an avid mountain biker and experienced bikepacker. I've ridden most of the rail trails in our area including the Iron Horse Trail from Hyak to the Columbia River and sections from Rock Lake to the Idaho border, The Weiser River Trail in Southern Idaho, The Hiawatha and Trail of The Coeur D'Alene's and The KVR from Midway to Penticton as well as others.

I support developing and opening the entire John Wayne Trail from the Idaho border to the Columbia River as soon as possible. I personally support minimal improvements to the trail to keep it as rugged and natural as possible. My experience from riding other rail trails tells me that amenities such as trailheads, vault toilets, garbage service and camping areas, while appreciated, are not needed. Most rail trails, you ride and plan your stops based on where the population centers are. It is not necessary to put trailheads, toilets and parking lots every ten miles or so. One or possibly two from the Idaho border to Beverly would be fine.

I support improving and opening the Rock Lake section and the bridge at Beverly as first priorities as these are both high interest, beautiful sections that would be signature sections upon completion. These two sections would draw the most interest from then general public. As mentioned earlier, As a mountain biker, I support minimal improvement to the trail surface...... removing the ballast rock as necessary and pretty much leave it alone after that.

I support eliminating the permit process. Other than placating a few disgruntled landowners, I really don't understand the point especially when its not required on any other rail trail I've ever ridden. If you want the public to be able to enjoy this park, it needs to be easy to you use as most recreational day users would do it on a whim. If the permit process has to stay in place, then please find a simple easy way to do it....such as signing up oline and being able to instantly print a permit....or putting trailhead sign up sheets at access points like all hiking trails have.....but please gert rid of the applying, waiting and granting system in place now.

I've been using this trail for over ten years.....Its wonderful to finally see some action on this and hopefully the Columbia Plateau trail too. I hope to easily be able to ride my mountain bike from Spokane to TriCities and/or Seattle via these trails in my lifetime and at 60, I can only hope you folks hurry up. Thank you. Private land owners should not be allowed to absorb the John Wayne Trail into their property and thus blocking access to any public. The entire trail should remain in the public domain. I would like the name to be "The John Wayne Trail." I have not used the John Wayne Trail yet. However, I live in Eastern Washington and would love to have an easily accessible and enjoyable trail to use. My husband and I travel to Idaho at least yearly to ride the trail of the couer d' alenes because it is an easily accessible and well maintained trail. It would be great if we would have something like this closer to home. Please don't let this portion of the John Wayne Trail disappear. Thank you. I fully support doing any and all work that makes the John Wayne Pioneer Trail a fully cross-state trail for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The fact that the eastern portion of the trail, public lands, was nearly given away to private landowners was outrageous and incredibly upsetting.

The trail should be open for access to the public without having to acquire permits. And I hope that the State Parks works with interested groups to maintain the trail. One idea that I loved was to have an Adopt-A-Mile program where volunteers care for the trail.

34

I fully support the work and planning that groups like the Tekoa Trestle Association and the John Wayne Trail Riders have done and continue to do.

Eastern Washington does not have enough public spaces that capture the austere beauty of our Channeled Scablands and the trail is one of the best places to see this beautiful landscape. A functioning cross-state trail will bring tourism to our small towns and showcase the incredible diversity of Washington's landscapes. Hello,

I'm writing in to express my gratitude that Washington has the longest rail trail in the country. I've only had the chance to ride on the part of the trail west of Snoqualmie Pass but I plan on riding a lot more of the trail once we get my wife a proper mountain bicycle. Please continue to let the public know what they can do to support your efforts to improve the trail. I rode the western part of the John Wayne Trail last summer and it was an amazing experience. I visited small towns that I never would have seen before and cannot describe how wonderful it was to be able to ride from my house in Seattle all the way to Ellensburg without have to worry about getting hit by a car. I would love to ride the full length of our great state in such a manner and I think this would be an incredible boon for towns along the trail. This trail is an incredible asset that should be kept open for all residents and visitors. Thanks so much for working on this important project. Dear Sirs and Madams—

My wife and I, and a number of our friends, frequently bicycle the JWPT every summer. Most of our trips run on the stretch between North Bend and Kittitas. The section that runs through the Upper Yakima River Canyon (S. Cle Elum to Thorp) is probably our favorite. The trailside swathes of lupine, aflutter with chickadees, are mind-blowing in springtime.

We ride across the Yakima Army Firing Range section at least once every summer. It's the most remote and beautiful section of the currently developed trail, but it's a long approach, rough and sandy, and sadly, several small trestles were lost to wildfire a couple of years ago.

We have explored the corridor east of the Columbia River, but it's so unimproved that we really haven't ridden it. We would be very keen to see this beautiful landscape made more accessible to cyclists. I think there are lots of other tourists like us that would ride east of the Columbia if it were a little better-developed.

It would be incredibly cool if the trestle across I-90 (east of Kittitas) could be repaired to carry bicycle traffic. The current ride-around is naturally a deterrent to casual cyclists. We can only dream of the day we can cross the Columbia River on the JWPT. The cost to benefit ratio may look slim, but boy would that draw visitors!

We feel that the Mountains To Sound and The Wilderness Society are on to something: Imagine riding from your own home in the Puget Sound region, on a public rail-trail, directly to the North Cascades and beyond, out under the big sky of central or eastern Washington. I believe we have an exceptional, unique and world- class trail within our grasp. That trail is a national treasure. It is breath taking. Please keep it accessible. I am currently planning a cross-state bicycle trip via the John Wayne Pioneer Trail for later this Spring/Summer. During my planning process, I have come to realize that there are many parts of the trail that are impassable on a bicycle, where I will need to detour, due to unmaintained railroad tressels and/or closed portions of the trail.

I am very much looking forward to the investment into the John Wayne Pioneer Trail, as it is an incredibly valuable resource, especially for the rural communities it passes through. Bicycle tourism is a huge economic boom for our state. A January 2015 study, Economic Analysis of Outdoor Recreation in Washington State,

35

prepared by Earth Economics and commissioned by the Task Force on Parks and Outdoor Recreation, shows that recreational bicyclists (local and out-of-state) spend $3.1 billion per year statewide and bicycling is the third largest outdoor recreational activity in the state by total expenditures.

Bringing cycle tourists on the John Wayne Pioneer Trail to the small communities in Eastern Washington could help boost these economies, show off the beauty of central and eastern Washington, and provide another safe and fun way to travel.

In closing, I highly encourage the full funding of this route, and am looking forward to my trip later this spring. The John Wayne trail (old Milwaukee rail road) is potentially one of the coolest bike trails in the country--as good or better than the Katy trail in Missouri. I've wanted to ride pieces of this many times and once even called a phone number I found to get a permit, but no one returned my call. The only reason this doesn't get much use is that there are too many barriers. It could be a huge recreation draw to Washington state, and I personally am interested in riding it if the barriers were lowered.

I respect the neighboring landowners concerns, but if you look at how this concerns have played out in other rail-trail project--well the concerns have never really materialized and rail-trails converted to bike routes have proven to be good neighbors time and time again. Eleven friends and I are interested in doing a bicycle tour of this trail, stopping at small towns for food, enjoying the scenery, camping, and experiencing our shared heritage.

Currently however there are simply too many barriers to make this an enjoyable use of our time:

1) The massive size of the ballast stones requires tires that are too big for most bikes. Gravel or hard packed dirt should replace this surface.

2) Significant stretches of closures without decent detours.

3) The most ridiculous permit system we've ever heard of. It's a rail trail, and shouldn't require a permit at all. Self permitting should be available at campsites.

4) Water and campsites along the trail should be provided and formalized in a low impact way in keeping with the quasi wild nature of the trail. As an adventure touring cyclist living Seattle, the John Wayne Pioneer Trail From North Bend to the Columbia River has had a profound impact on my interest in visiting all corners of Washington State. I find the trail to be a treasure worth preserving and improving. I have been touring on the trail for many years now and often use it as a gateway to other cycling adventures on the east side of the mountains. A local business in Seattle that sells bicycle touring bags (Swift Industries) has recently begun a bicycle touring presentation series every winter which draws hundreds of cyclists interested in the topic. I was amazed by how many presenters (including me) use this trail as a springboard for their longer tours. I can only imagine improving this trail from the Columbia eastward will encourage us to visit the wonderful communities on the east side of the state. Since touring cyclists prefer to travel light on food and often seek rest in RV camping and hotels I would imagine this tourism money would be welcomed by our friends in eastern Washington. I can envision a local brewery or bar being a wonderful way to close our a long day of riding.

On my most recent tour in eastern Washington we took the trail for a large portion of the first day, unfortunately we had difficulty crossing the mighty Columbia since the bicycle/pedestrian bridge was closed. We were forced to ask for a lift in a truck from the west side to the east side since we were not comfortable cycling across I-90 interstate at a slow speed with no shoulder. These sort of impediments can often scare cyclists away from even attempting to ride in the area. Please consider improving this crossing. I am excited 36

these improvements are getting traction and can't wait for the day I can cycle tour from the pacific ocean to the Idaho border safely! I look forward to supporting communities along the way and meeting my fellow Washingtonians! preserve the rail right of way, 100 % . this may be a trail now but may be converted to rail in the future.

keep it unpaved but improve the surface. consider crushed limestone. refer to the surface treatment on the Great Allegheny Passage trail in PA.

it must be non motorized year round allow hunting fishing but establish safety zones, no hunting within an established number of feet sineage for camping, water, stores , historical sites and access to other trails and roads Crossing the Columbia: Crossing the columbia on I-90 was really really scary when I bicycled it some years ago. As I recall we got up really early and pedled for our lives to get across the bridge. Absolute #1 on my list of things to fix for cyclists would be to have a safe crossing near the John Wayne / Vantage if there still isn't one.

Stop requiring permits: For the western half of the John Wayne you can just get up and ride it. Requiring users to figure out they need permits to ride on a trail makes it way way less usable.

Gravel too thick: The one time I biked Easton to Ellensburg, the gravel was just a bit too much on the thick side. Ellensburg folk we talked to recommended we skip the trail from Ellensbrug to Vantage and when we tracked down the trail east of the Columbia we ended up not taking the trail further because the gravel was too thick to be worth it when compared to alternative routes. Paving might work, too, for east of columbia but I wouldn't pave west of Ellensburg -- I really like having the rugged bumpyness of the ride part of the experience.

Previous problems with John Wayne changes: A year or two ago when I-90 came under construction, a section of the John Wayne trail near Kechelus Lake was made a lot worse by the addition of a lot of gravel. My best guess is that the over-graveling was an attempt to make the trail better and instead made it a whole lot worse. The Kechelus section of the trail was delightful before and I expect if left alone it'll return to it's previous state in about a decade. I'm not sure why it was actively made worse. At least the section east of Cle Elum is really hard to ride anyway so making it even harder wouldn't be as much of a loss. If it's possible to return the Kechelus section to the way it was before it was messed up, I'd place higher prioirity on that then on fixing east of Columbia. But please please don't make Easton to North Bend worse.

Signage: Have signage up for any gaps in the trail. Make it super clear you're on the trail and allowed to be there. I can't remember the signage east of the columbia but I don't think there was much of it. Good morning --

I am unable to attend the upcoming planning meetings in Eastern Washington, but I wanted to write and ask for your strong support of keeping the John Wayne Pioneer Trail open and intact along it's entire length, to increase access, and to ensure ongoing and future equestrian use.

This unique east-west trail has been on my list of through rides since I first heard of it two years ago. It's a rare resource and a tremendous history.

We may live on the West side -- but we are looking forward to riding here. Please, keep it open to horses and make it easier to access for all.

I ride my mountain bike on the trail from raddle snake lake to hyak 4 to 5 times a year. Last year I brought my 11 & 6 year olds with me I got them to go 8 miles up the trail. As a city liver I love and I in joy this trail 37

so please keep this trail in use. Also I really like all the tunals that are on the trail. Our family loves biking on John Wayne Pioneer Trail (the Milwaukee Road Corridor) in eastern Washington. We use the trails passing through North Bend, Snoqualmie Pass, the Snoqualmie Tunnel, Easton, Cle Elum, Thorpe, Kittitas, such a special place to be out amongst nature and farms on a safe non-vehicular gravel trails. Really appreciate the clean restrooms, too! We ride the trails all summer long. Please keep the trails open and to the public. Thank you very much! From North Bend to Idaho, I think the greatest effort should be improving the safety of crossing the Columbia River near Vantage.

Crossing on the dam would be a low cost, near-term suggestion.

Fixing the railroad bridge at Beverly would make a great tourist attraction. Perhaps Grant County PUD would pay half the cost of decking the trestle for pedestrians. I think most of the issues outlined here

http://parks.state.wa.us/979/John-Wayne-Pioneer-Trail-Planning are pretty comprehensive. Identify the best ways to: improve the trail, especially east of the Columbia River, repair trestles, streamline or eliminate the permitting process, create simple amenities like trailheads, water sources, toilets, campgrounds, etc., work with landowners to address concerns. I would add one thing I don't see here: change the name. John Wayne has nothing to do with this part of the country. Seek a name that reflects the history of the region, perhaps taking a cue from the COeur D'alene tribe and the work they have done on their trial in Idaho — perhaps consulting with regional tribes, to acknowledge our historical debt and to ensure future stewardship of public land.

Most urgently: find funds to restore the trestle over the Columbia River, so you don't place cyclists on I-90 at Vantage or force them to take a very long detour or get a ride across.

If you improve this trail, people will come, and Washington state will have a wonderful public park that spans from the Palouse to Puget Sound, and bragging rights of the longest rail trail in the nation. I support efforts to expand access and invest in the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. I had the opportunity to ride the trail for the first time last fall and it was a breathtaking experience to be able to bike through an abandoned rail tunnel and on hundred foot trestle bridges. I was inspired to purchase a new bike for gravel touring which I am going to build up to ride the rest of the trail.

When I took that trip last fall with my partner, we stayed and dined in Ellensburg. If we had gone further we would have done the same in other communities. The JWPT can uniquely put "wallets on wheels" throughout Eastern Washington and create significant economic benefits for communities along the trail.

I know the trail faces many challenges east of Ellensburg from trip reports from other riders. Detours, private gates, missing trestles and a hair raising crossing of the Columbia river on I-90. However I am confident with modest investment these issues can be overcome and make the JWPT one of the premier recreational opportunities in the Pacific Northwest.

Please expand access to, and invest in the JWPT. Thanks.

Utilize the recommendations and work of the Governor's Blue Ribbon Parks & Outdoor Recreation Task Force--Final Recommendations to Governor Inslee, create a long term plan that incorporates Washington state's outdoor economy, as an asset and way to fund the preservation, maintenance, and promotion of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. http://www.rco.wa.gov/documents/ORTF/ORTF-Recommendations.pdf.

38

Cascade Rail Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to sustaining the history of the Milwaukee Road railroad in Washington State. Our primary activities include developing and operating the South Cle Elum Rail Yard in cooperation with Washington State Parks, preserving and providing access to archival materials related to the Milwaukee Road in Washington, and engaging people in the history of the railroad here through public outreach.

Between our overall mission of sustaining the history of the Milwaukee Road here in Washington and our work with State Parks to develop and operate the South Cle Elum Rail Yard, we have a long standing interest and involvement in the development of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. We are pleased to be participating as a member of the Advisory Committee supporting the current planning process for the trail and have some comments for consideration by Washington State Parks.

Our organization wholeheartedly supports the development of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail as a publicly accessible, contiguous route between Cedar Falls and the Idaho state line, using as much of the former Milwaukee Road rail bed as possible. We strongly support actions that increase the use and enjoyment of the trail. We also would like to see State Parks receive the resources necessary to be a good neighbor to adjacent property owners along the length of the trail.

Public access to the eastern portion of the trail should be managed in the same manner as the segment west of the Columbia River. Steps should be taken to remove the requirement for use permit.

Detours from the rail bed should be systematically removed or reduced in length, whether this means opening existing bridges for public use or real estate transactions (acquiring right of way or easements). State Parks should establish prioritize these projects, accounting for the projected cost and benefit of each project.

To increase use of the trail, Washington State Parks should also develop and implement projects to create connections with other trails either by itself or in partnership with other jurisdictions and agencies. A connection with the Columbia Plateau Trail should be a priority.

Marketing the trail to potential users would be aided by a consistent name and brand development for the whole corridor between Cedar Falls and Idaho. If there is any change to the name of the trail, we strongly encourage that the new name make it more obvious that the trail was once a railroad. For instance, a minor tweak to the current name could be “John Wayne Pioneer Rail Trail†.

As development of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail continues, Cascade Rail Foundation stands ready to assist Washington State Parks with the historic interpretation of the trail. We have extensive collections of photos and other documentation available to support these efforts and a network of knowledgeable supporters willing to contribute their expertise and material from their private collections.

We are also willing to support private fundraising efforts that can leverage limited state funds for the work needed to allow the trail to reach its full potential as a recreational and cultural resource for the citizens of Washington and guests from elsewhere.

Thank you for your consideration.

My wife and I are new users of the JWPT, having ridden our bikes on it the past two weekends. There will be many more weekends of use to come.

Finding the proper permit number to call was difficult, but the staff were great and prompt. If permits are to track use, suggest a self permitting process at major trail heads - as well as displaying the Discover Pass.

39

The Trail is a treasure that needs to be kept. What an asset to provide our next generation in its heritage, let alone its remote beauty. Adjacent land use seemed to involve moving cattle and machinery from one field to another. Do not mind reasonable concurrent use, so long as the gates remain unlocked. All those we met were very friendly and hospitable.

If Permitting is about money (what isn't?), consider a JWPT specific add on to the Discover Pass, or adding another tab fee for the Parks on license renewals.

Keep up the good work, and the trail open! Please save the John Wayne Trail. It should be a community asset. Shame on Schmik an Dye for trying to pull a fast one against the majority of the people they are supposed to represent. Please protect the John Wayne trail right of way through all sections of the trail. Hello,

I appreciate the advisory committee's efforts to further the development and recreation opportunities on the John Wayne Trail. My primary method of recreation is bicycle, and I aspire to ride the entire length of the John Wayne Trail. I have completed similar long distance bicycle tours in the past, and the John Wayne Trail is of great interest to me in that regard.

A few things that I've noted as a cyclist:

- Requiring a permit to travel on the trail seems unnecessary and excessive

- Water availability on the east side of the Cascades could be improved

- Goatheads and other thorny weeds can be troublesome for cyclists

- The little connections between places is important! The more easements and legal passages, the better. Repairing, replacing, or providing alternate trail options for broken or unsafe trestle bridges would be very helpful.

Thank you!

Also, I sent the following letter to Olympia and I would like to share it with you as well:

Hello Sen. Ericksen, Rep Van Werven, and Rep Buys,

I'm writing in support of preserving and maintaining Washington's John Wayne Trail/State Park.

The John Wayne Trail/State Park is a unique and beautiful cross state trail that allows folks to walk, bike, or ride their horses all the way from the Seattle area to the Idaho border in Tekoa, where it ends. It is a valuable recreational opportunity, and holds the potential of bringing tourism dollars to Washington communities.

As a Washington State voter who participates in recreation around the state, I strongly support the Tekoa City Council, the Tekoa Trail and Trestle Association, and The Friends John Wayne Pioneer Trail (I am a dues- paying member) in their efforts to improve and connect the John Wayne Pioneer Trail segments across our great state of Washington.

40

Thank you, Whatcom County I would like to see the John Wayne Pioneer Trail open and developed across the entire state. I would also like to be able to use the Eastern Washington section of the trail without having to obtain permits.

We have this amazing recreational resource just sitting there, undeveloped, and it could be one of the crown jewels in our State Parks system, as well as on of the premier rails-to-trails projects in the nation. Our state has neglected this trail long enough. Without some development and easier access it will continue to be underutilized. I have enjoyed the John Wayne Pioneer Trail on many occasions. I've found the trail to be fantastic, even in it's dilapidated state. While the neglect is part of the adventure this trail can't survive the current political environment. It is a wonderful resource, has a great history and can help bring economic development to neglected towns. Please fund and support this park. Dear Washington State Parks,

I wish to add my voice of support to the John Wayne Trail.

A cross state trail traveling through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the state must be fully supported. I recently rode by bicycle a similar trail in West Virginia, The Greenbrier River Trail, with my family of four and was so impressed that I started to look for other multi-day bicycle trails to ride with my family. The John Wayne trail was by far the most interesting trail in the entire country. I look forward to accessing this trail as soon as possible.

I am very disheartened to read that the trail is under attack by the state legislator. To the lose this right-away would be a great loss to the state and a great loss for many visitors who plan to ride this trail when it's condition becomes appropriate for family adventures. Say no to the actions of a greedy few.

Please continue to support and expand the John Wayne Trail. Dear Sir or Madam,

Please develop and preserve all of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. When completed, this will be an enormous asset to outdoor recreation in Washington.

Last year I rode the recently completed Great Allegheny Passage bike trail from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, then the C&O (Chesapeake and Ohio) bike path from Cumberland to Washington, DC. The total distance was about 300 miles - similar to the John Wayne trail. It was a wonderful experience.

The John Wayne Trail could be just as great, if the state got behind it. People would come from all over the world to ride on it.

Please support the John Wayne Pioneer Trail!

Thank you. Seattle this trail must be saved. It is a jewel that mustn't be lost. Despicable that two legislators tried to sell it to private land grab developers. If lost, there will NEVER be another like it. While not familiar with this particular trail, I find it difficult as a horse owner to see trails disappearing all over the country that are accessible to horses. This is a popular trail for recreation and I know that it is a big favorite of some of my friends. As public lands are increasingly restricting access to all kinds of users not just horses, I find it appalling that a "secret" land grab was made to benefit a few. We need these open spaces

41

to stay free to all users. The John Wayne Trail is a unique opportunity. It is partially build and ties the Eastern and Western parts of our State. It is the only cross state trail and needs to be built to completion. I fully support the continued completion of this trail by using tax dollars from the State of Washington and the Federal government.

I fully support the continued building and planning of the JWT thru Eastern Washington. To Washington State parks:

I strongly urge you quickly develop to middle 140 miles of the John Wayne trail to make them accessible to hikers, bikers and other non-motorized users as soon as possible.

Years ago I rode my bike from Seattle to Sand Point, Id, and I had to ride along more or less busy roads the entire way. I would have loved to have the John Wayne trail as an option for the majority of my ride.

I realize it will take time and money to fully develop this trail. In the meantime, at the very least, please ensure that the public's right of access to the entire length of the trail is guaranteed, and no secret deals to turn access control over to private land owners along the way are done. This PUBLIC right of way is a unique opportunity for the State of Washington and needs to be preserved in the public domain.

Thank you! I think it is fantastic that we are taking these old rail sections and converting them to trails. I hope to hike The John Wayne Trail all the way to Idaho someday when it is finished. I believe that creating designated camping areas along the trail would allow for people outside of the locals do do more sections of the trail.

I have hiked the Centennial Trail from Snohomish to Arlington and Cascade Trail from Sedro Woolley to Concrete and Olympic Discovery Trail from Port Townsend to Lake Crescent. I think it makes a world of different to get families outdoors and off existing roads. I have met many new friends along these trails. I would like to see the John Wayne Pioneer Trail re-named to something more locally appropriate. I know others have pointed this out, but I want to say it certainly seems high time, especially with the recent decision by California lawmakers to stop passage of a John Wayne Day law, that the legacy of the man has a lot of concerns regarding his outright racism and bigotry. I think this coupled with the fact that he had absolutely nothing to do with the Rail-Trail or the Milwaukee Road is reason to take action in the near future and rename the trail, perhaps simply to extend the "Iron Horse" State Park/Trail name to indicate the entirety of the 280 mile trail? This would serve to help the public realize the trail keeps going past the Cascades, as well as ease confusion about multiple names for what is really the same trail. This could apply to the numerous other rail- trails with multiple names, such as Fish Lake Trail/ Columbia Plateau Trail. Let's be proactive and simplify things for everyone, and remove John Wayne from the name of this great public resource! Thank you for your work. nick thomas The Iron Horse Trail is a state and national treasure. I was appalled that two WA State congressman tried a sneak attack on a portion of the trail in Eastern WA by removing it from protection and giving it to their friends without any public notice of this action. The trail must be preserved in it's entirety for the benefit of the public and future generations. WA state must provide the funding needed to keep this wonderful trail in public hands. Please preserve and protect the JWPT from Washington State Senate President Mark Schoesler and Representative Joe Schmick, both from the 9th District!

The JWPT is a National Recreational Trail, a treasure, that was bought by us taxpayers for $3,000,000 back in 1977. This was a good deal.

All of us with a vision for the future, and taking heed of the ugly lessons of the past,clearly see that this park

42

has the potential in the future to be a truly world class amenity for future generations of Washingtonians.

I plead no reversion to this public land held in trust to private ownership! John Wayne Pioneer Trail-Public Feedback

As a cyclist who has ridden the western part of the JWT, and as someone who intends to ride much of the eastern section, I would like to comment on trail development priorities.

The JWT is a public/state facility. As such, the need to reduce political rhetoric is critical for all concerned parties. I certainly understand the desire of varying parties’ interests in seeing this land owned and operated for their own best interest. That said, long term vision should be the guiding principle behind decisions made today.

PRIORITIES

Assuming the full development of the JWT is a multi-year project, setting priorities that provide the best opportunities for the likely user base at each stage is key. As the trail and private services develop the trail user demographic will change. This understanding will help in prioritizing development.

1.) Acquire all ‘trail gaps’. For the section of currently operating railroad, Washington State Parks (WSP) must secure a first right of refusal at a time of sale or title transfer or line abandonment.

2.) Weed control and trespass concerns. In great part both concerns are likely overplayed by trail opponents. However, both need to be address early in the process. It could be that some adjacent landowners may be enlisted, and financially compensated, to both build fence and spray for weed control. It could be reasonably expected adjacent landowners are experienced at both and would more likely feel in greater control as a co- participant.

3.) Local community engagement. Once adjacent landowner issues have been addressed, outreach by WSP to local trailside communities is a must. Areas with little direct experience of tourism will not know what to expect and likely hold a negative view of trail development. There are numerous examples of the positive changes as a result of increased bicycle tourism.

4.) Eliminate permitting. As interest in the trail grows, encouraging a more casual user is a must. Requiring a permit does not well match with this demographic.

5.) Access point development. With increased use the trail will need increased access points and user facilities.

6.) Tunnel and trestle repair/replacement. Points 1-5 are relatively low cost investments designed to both engage local businesses and landowners as well as encourage greater trail use participation. As much as I and many others would like to see the trail fully ‘ridable’ in its original configuration, we are the sort of riders who will find a way around the missing sections, making detours and file permits just for the adventure of riding the JWT. Most trail users will not do this. Instead most will ride or walk fairly close to established facilities. Missing sections are not an issue for the casual user. However, as the user base grows and locals become engaged a greater need will develop for a fully completed trail. As the final stage of development, and greatest expenditure, completing tunnel and trestle upgrades will likely involve a far greater public interest. This interest will likely create a much more positive response in Olympia regarding funding.

Respectfully submitted,

43

I am writing in support of the John Wayne Pioneer Trail and its continued expansion. I have used this trail on many occasions for recreation in the areas from Vantage to North Bend. I look forward to also visiting the more eastern portions of the state to use the eastern sections of this rail-trail. I recently read that some legislators have attempted to give-away a portion of the land on which the eastern section of trail is located. I am wholeheartedly against any change in status for this trail which reduces the size/length of the trail or transfers ownership to private parties. Please continue to plan for the necessary maintenance of this trail and its expansion to the east. This is an important opportunity to expand a non-motorized recreation and transportation corridor which will provide long-term benefits to the citizens of the State. Please keep motorized vehicles off of state park trails. Anyone who wants to use a motor can already drive the million miles of forest service roads, they can drive on the freeway, motors already rule the environment, and if the state parks wants to be part of the solution to climate change they should not encourage motorized vehicle use. It's time for a change in this world and the change should begin here at home in Washington state.

No motorized vehicle use in our parks. I go to the parks and use the trails for peace and quiet. I go to the parks to get out of my noisy neighborhood that is full of noise.

Please, no motorized vehicles on trails.

Thank you, I have ridden the John Wayne Trail on my bike several times and have found it to be a gem in the parks system. The scenery and the history of the route is beyond compare. The trail is not crowded, even on busy summer weekends.

Improvements that I'd suggest are:

Additional signage for directions to the trail and along the trail. Historical signage would increase interest in the trail also.

Access to water. I have found that it can be quite a distance between water sources.

Consider back-country or primitive camping along the trail. It's a long trail, more than a day ride.

Please work to protect and improve this wonderful resource for the public good.

Thank you, Please consider immediate and ongoing funding for the following projects:

1. Tekoa Trestle

2. Renslow Trestle

3. Grading between Malden and Tekoa Simply put, I want my taxes spent on Infrastructure including our trail systems. I DO NOT want our public lands going to the private sector.

Legislators, please stop wasting our time and the state's money with your underhanded methods to fragmentize the John Wayne trail system!

44